As Florida residents brace for the landfall of Hurricane Milton, the American Lung Association (ALA) is offering guidance for those with chronic lung conditions. Nearly half a million people in Tampa Bay live with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer or other chronic lung conditions, according to the ALA.People who live with chronic lung conditions could be at a greater risk during a natural disaster like Hurricane Milton and Helene, according to Steven Riddle, executive director of the Tampa division of the American Lung Association. HURRICANE EFFECTS POSE ‘TREMENDOUS’ HEALTH HAZARDS FOR AMERICANS, DOCTOR WARNS“High winds kick up dirt, allergens and other irritants that can exacerbate asthma, COPD and other lung conditions,” he told Fox News Digital. “Some evidence links mold to respiratory illnesses in otherwise healthy children.”For those living in Gulf Coast communities, the ALA published the following recommendations on its website for lung health protection. Ask for helpThose who need assistance or information during a hurricane can contact the American Lung Association’s Lung Helpline at 1-800-LUNG-USA to speak with nurses and respiratory therapists or can visit Lung.org/disaster.

Source: Fox News October 10, 2024 09:35 UTC