Asthma and other lung disorders are increasing in prevalence worldwide especially in developed nations. This issue we will discuss a response to the air pollution side of it. In a study by Butz AM et. al. we see an intervention to control air pollution by a High Efficiency Particulate Air cleaners. They looked at 126 inner city kids in Baltimore with persistent asthma and the effect that HEPA cleaners have on their disease and their environment. Over the next 6 months, the study evaluated household particulate matter(pollution) and asthma symptom free days. At the end of the study period, the intervention group had 33 less symptom days per year and significantly less particulate matter than a control group. Think about the amount of medicine that can be avoided just by reducing household pollution exposure. This is the hallmark of an integrative approach to asthma.
This raises another question. If the household environment is irritating them, does it also irritate us at a lower level? I would say unequivocally, YES. Our houses are sealed tight these days. In 2011, there are more chemicals released into the air from household products than ever. The sum total of the information available is that we do have risk. What to do??? 1) Air your house out routinely when weather permits. 2) Change your air filters every 1-3 months 3) Consider a HEPA machine 4) Clean your house with safe products - see the link 5) There are many plants that are believed to help reduce air pollutants. Consider looking into some healthy houseplants 6) Think positive - always useful!!!!!!!!!!
Butz AM et al. Arch Ped Adolesc Med. Aug 2011; 165:741 See the links to EWG, Tox Town and safe cleaning. | 
