Being Black and Asthmatic During COVID-19
We’re more likely to die and here’s why:
Asthma can be a debilitating illness for many people. However, everyone does not recognize it as such. They may view asthma as a slight inconvenience or a childhood ailment. During the COVID-19 epidemic, having asthma has been labeled a “pre-existing condition,” increasingly poor outcomes. Many people do not realize that your race can affect your likelihood of developing respiratory disorders.
“African-Americans in the U.S. die from asthma at a higher rate than people of other races or ethnicities” (AAFA, 2015).
“What Ethnic Groups Have Higher Asthma Rates?
See AAFA’s groundbreaking research report on Disparities in Asthma Care. It was published with the National Pharmaceutical Council.
Racial/ethnic differences in asthma frequency, illness and death are highly connected with poverty, city air quality, indoor allergens, not enough patient education and poor health care.
The rate of asthma and the prevalence of asthma episodes is highest among Puerto Ricans compared to all ethnic groups.
African-American children have the highest prevalence of asthma.
African-Americans in the U.S. die from asthma at a higher rate than people of…
