Asthma is a chronic disease that causes inflammation of the airways. This is due to swelling and tightening of the airway muscles. The increased irritability of the narrowed airways results in wheezing, coughing, loss of breath, and chest pain and can also cause an overproduction of mucus.
Recent surveys and individual studies indicate that American Indians may have up to a 33% higher prevalence of Asthma then the general population. Based on a 2002 survey, 11.6% of American Indians said they suffered from asthma. This is significantly higher than the national average of 7.5% and among the highest of other racial or ethnic groups. 

Although there is no cure, asthma triggers can be identified and asthma can be successfully controlled. Individuals with asthma can lead a fulfilling and active life when their asthma is under good control. We are committed to providing asthma prevention and management education and improving healthcare systems ability to provide asthma treatment services.