ASTHMA

In St. Charles Parish, one in 10 families has a child who suffers

Asthma is a major problem in Louisiana with one in 10 households having at least one child who suffers.

The illness is terrifying - victims feel they are suffocating during an attack. And in extreme cases, asthma can be fatal.

Once you have asthma, you’ve got it for good ... it won’t go away.

But there are things you can do to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. We look at them in this report.

Paying attention to your health is more important than ever on the heels of the national United Health Foundation’s report naming Louisiana the “least healthy” state in the nation for 2006.

The picture painted by the respected research group isn’t pretty.

“Louisiana is 50th this year, a position it has held for 14 of the 15 editions of this report,” the foundation said in its grim analysis.

In our exclusive 10-part series, the Herald-Guide will take a closer look at the major health problems facing Louisiana and St. Charles Parish. As identifed by the state, the big issues are obesity, asthma, diabetes, mental health, heart disease, premature death, smoking, children in poverty, the uninsured, and flu.

We will explore ways to preserve your health, and the health of your loved ones, through all available resources. We’ll provide you with wellness options. Don’t miss a single installment - your health is important.