2. Avoid lung hazards. Reduce your exposure to secondhand smoke and outdoor air pollution; indoors, check you home for allergens, dust mites and other irritants you can control.

3. Recognize the warning signs of lung disease. Chronic cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing blood, chronic mucus production and chronic fatigue are not normal. Your lungs are too important to ignore, so see your doctor for prompt attention.

4. Know the symptoms of asthma, especially wheezing and chronic nighttime cough. Call us if you suspect you or a loved one has asthma – we can help with information on exercise, medications and coping skills to manage the disease and avoid attacks.

5. Create an asthma action plan with your child’s physician. If your child has asthma, help educate his or her school administrators, babysitters and others about medications, activities and warning signs. If you need help, call us for effective materials and programs to share.

6. Get involved! Air pollution worsens lung disease and can be devastating for older adults and those with chronic conditions. Join in the fight for clean air by reducing pollution and supporting clean air laws.

7. Test your home for radon – it’s simple and inexpensive. This colorless, odorless gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer, yet it can be easily controlled.

8. Ask your doctor about a flu or pneumonia shot. They’re helpful for everyone. Flu shots are absolutely vital for those who are over 50 or have chronic diseases. American Lung Association research has proven that flu shots are safe for people with asthma. Pneumonia vaccination is vital for those over 65. Call us for our statewide Flu Shot schedule.

9. Start small. Your best bet for preventing lung disease is by teaching children to grown up smoke-free. The ALA of LA has proven programs that teach kids not to smoke; call us for materials and information.