Asthma A to Z - Parent's Guide

Asthma is the most common chronic disease of childhood, and yet many parents don't know much about the condition. In the U.S. alone, it's estimated that nearly five million children under the age of 18 have asthma and that many others may have "hidden" or undiagnosed asthma. Asthma is the most common cause of school absenteeism due to chronic disease.

Although asthma can occur in people of any age, even in infants, most children with the illness develop it by age five. Asthma seems to be more common in boys than in girls in early childhood. By the time children become teenagers, the risk seems to even out between girls and boys.

The best defense against childhood asthma begins with knowledge of the disease. This is the best way to ensure that, if your child does develop asthma, you and your provider can work together to control the condition.