U.S. Rep. David Valadao (R-CA) on May 5 reiterated his support for a bipartisan resolution that would designate May as National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month.
The congressman reaffirmed support on Tuesday for a House Resolution that was introduced alongside U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), co-chairs of the House Asthma and Allergy Caucus.
“In the Central Valley, more than half a million people are living with asthma, and many more struggle with allergies that make daily life harder than it should be,” Rep. Valadao said. “For many families, managing these conditions means juggling doctor’s visits, covering the cost of medications, and staying ahead of potential emergencies.
“That’s why I’m proud to recognize May as Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month to support those facing these difficult conditions,” he added. “I look forward to continuing to work with my Asthma and Allergy Caucus co-chair, Rep. Dingell, to ensure families across the country can breathe a little easier and live healthier lives.”
The resolution states that 4.9 million children in the United States currently have asthma, and nearly 28 million people in America have asthma, with the numbers increasing each year.
At the same time, food allergy has increased among U.S. children over the past 20 years, with the greatest increase in black children, the text of the resolution says, noting that children with food allergies are two to four times more likely to have asthma or other allergic diseases.
Under the resolution, the U.S. House of Representatives would recognize National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month and call upon Americans to observe it with appropriate ceremonies and activities, according to the text.
“Allergies and asthma impact Americans from every corner of the country, including my home state of Michigan, which has some of the highest rates of asthma in the country,” said Rep. Dingell. “I’m proud to designate May as Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month to support increased education and efforts to improve the quality of life for Americans living with these conditions.”
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America supports the resolution.