Authors:

Sofia Gonzalez

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About Paper:

Asthma is among the most prevalent respiratory conditions globally (WHO 2019). Environmentally linked airborne pollutants, including dust from the Sahara Desert and mold from hurricane-induced flooding, are believed to significantly influence its incidence. Puerto Rico exhibits the highest childhood asthma prevalence, making the link between air quality and asthma an escalating public health issue on the island. Maintaining good air quality is essential for optimal respiratory health. We sourced data from the CDC, spanning 10 years, on asthma incidence in Puerto Rico, and from NOAA on hurricane metrics (dates, wind speed, and pressure). Descriptive statistics were utilized to study asthma incidence and its potential correlation with hurricanes. A noticeable correlation was observed between asthma incidence and hurricane presence, with peak average wind speeds coinciding with the highest asthma prevalence in Puerto Rico. Conversely, between 2013 to 2016, the asthma rates for both the U.S. and Puerto Rico had declining asthma prevalence, during which there were no hurricanes affecting those areas during that time period. Hurricanes may increase asthma incidents owing to potential factors like mold growth in flooded zones, airborne allergens from upturned debris and dust, and challenges in healthcare and medication access post-storm. Additionally, the mental stress from hurricanes can trigger asthma symptoms, gas caused by the storm may introduce new allergens into the environment, increasing the risk for asthma exacerbations among vulnerable individuals.

Source:

University of Florida / Sofia Gonzalez, Rick Kates / 2023

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Co-authors:

Sofia Gonzalez