Letter to the editor: Leaders must address asthma
Childhood asthma leads to over 10 million missed school days annually in the U.S., making it a significant contributor to chronic illness-related school absenteeism. In the U.S., nearly 25 million Americans, including 5.1 million children, have asthma. In Pennsylvania, approximately 12.3% of school age children have asthma.
Albuterol is a crucial bronchodilator used to manage acute asthma attacks by relaxing airway muscles. For students with asthma, timely access to lifesaving medication can prevent a severe health crisis.
In Pennsylvania, there are many schools without back-up albuterol for students. Pennsylvania’s House of Representatives is considering House Bill 1084, which would allow schools in Pennsylvania to stock asthma medication or inhalers that can help save the lives of children experiencing asthma attacks or respiratory distress.
Breathe PA’s School Asthma Initiative supports students managing asthma. Breathe PA trains school nurses in asthma management, treatment and intervention. The initiative ensures schools can handle asthma emergencies by supplying school nurses with the necessary supplies, resources and emergency albuterol. House Bill 1084 will establish a standing order for albuterol in Pennsylvania schools, allowing them to maintain a supply of this essential medication, ensuring no child suffers an asthma attack without immediate treatment.
Every student deserves immediate access to albuterol. As a community — parents, caregivers, educators and legislators — we must unite to advocate for this legislation, ensuring our children can thrive in a safe and supportive educational environment. Please ask your state representative to support House Bill 1084.
Casey Monroe
Cranberry Township
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