CAC Resources & MORE

2026 Asthma Whitepaper - Literature Review: The Relationship Between Asthma Exacerbations and Indoor Environmental Pollution

Abstract

Asthma remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in urban communities where poor housing conditions and indoor environmental pollution contribute to higher rates of asthma exacerbations. This literature review examines the relationship between indoor air quality and asthma morbidity, highlighting how exposure to mold, pests, dust mites, particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and inadequate ventilation can worsen respiratory health outcomes. Drawing on current research and interviews with public health, housing, and environmental experts in Chicago, the review demonstrates that asthma disparities are closely linked to housing quality, especially in low-income and historically underserved neighborhoods.

The findings reveal that preventable environmental hazards within homes are sustained by gaps in housing maintenance, code enforcement, and policy oversight. The review advocates for comprehensive, building-wide interventions, including mold remediation, improved ventilation, integrated pest management, and proactive housing inspections, alongside stronger collaboration between healthcare systems, housing agencies, and policymakers. Ultimately, the paper argues that addressing indoor environmental pollution is essential to reducing asthma-related health disparities and advancing health equity in Chicago and other urban communities.

Read the Whitepaper Here!

Addressing Asthma Disparities in Chicago

The Chicago Asthma Consortium is proud to announce the release of its "Addressing Asthma Disparities in Chicago" position paper, born from the Fall 2024 Conference. This report highlights the stark disparities in asthma outcomes affecting marginalized communities in Chicago, drawing on critical data from city, county, and state health departments. It reveals how social and environmental factors like poor housing and limited healthcare access drive these inequities, identifying key issues such as racial and geographic disparities, the impact of inadequate housing, healthcare barriers, lack of community awareness, and policy gaps. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for policy change, healthcare system improvements, and community empowerment, all aimed at reducing the disproportionate burden of asthma in vulnerable populations.

Asthma Inhaler Co-Pay Cap Laws
Learn about co-pay cap laws in the U.S. that aim to make asthma medications more affordable for patients. These resources provide an overview of the current regulations and their impact on asthma treatment costs. 

Click the links below to learn more: 

• The state of NY proposes no-cost inhalers - Learn more
• Inhaler costs in Europe vs US - Learn more

Tenants with Asthma: An Environmental Checklist
Chicago Asthma Consortium (CAC) and Metropolitan Tenants Organization (MTO) collaborated to create a checklist as a tool to identify and lessen potential household hazards (called triggers) for any tenant or family member with asthma.

Download Checklist

The American Lung Association is Committed to Enhancing Asthma Care

This quality improvement project utilizes a collaborative approach to implement new systems that support and sustain the adherence to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) asthma guidelines in partnering clinics. 

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Congratulations to our Inhaler Challenge Winner!

Enas Horeish

Third-year Doctor of Pharmacy student with a master's degree in medical laboratory science

Learn more about Enas here!

The Chicago Asthma Consortium (CAC) is excited to introduce our new podcast, a monthly series exploring critical topics related to asthma management, research, and lived experiences. Each episode features expert guests who share insights, strategies and personal stories to help individuals, caregivers, and healthcare professionals navigate the complexities of asthma care. 

Each month, we highlight a member of our community who has either lived with asthma or supported someone with the condition, showcasing their journey of overcoming challenges, learning along the way, and inspiring others.