Picture a child in Pittsburgh returning to the emergency room, struggling to breathe despite using a prescribed inhaler. This cycle is common across Western Pennsylvania.

At Breathe PA, we work with individuals, families and communities to build the skills needed to manage asthma daily, including how to use medications correctly, respond to symptoms and reduce triggers at home, school and beyond. Too often, families tell us, “No one explained this,” highlighting a critical gap. Asthma frequently is treated with medication alone, without the education needed for true management.

Asthma affects more than 25 million Americans, including 4.5 million children. Despite modern treatments, many still face frequent emergencies and miss school or work. Medication is essential, but without understanding proper use, trigger avoidance and early warning signs, control often falls short.

Effective asthma management goes beyond prescriptions. It means addressing environmental triggers such as mold, dust, smoke and poor air quality, and ensuring inhalers are used correctly. Education empowers families to prevent symptoms rather than react to them.

Community-based programs help bridge this gap. Breathe PA’s School-Based Asthma Initiative brings education into schools and neighborhoods, equipping families and staff to recognize symptoms early and reduce risks.

Asthma care shouldn’t end at the doctor’s office. When education and treatment work together, families can break the cycle of emergency visits and move toward healthier, more active lives.

Rebecca Valencia

Cranberry Township

The writer is external affairs manager for Breathe PA.

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