Health & Science

One Breath At A Time: Harris County Public Health Offers Free Asthma Program for All Ages

May 27 2023

Breathing easily shouldn't be a luxury. This Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, Harris County Public Health is raising awareness for and support of those who face the challenges of these conditions every day. One way that Harris County Public Health is working to help address asthma across Harris County is with the One Breath At A Time Asthma Program.

The One Breath At A Time (OBT) Asthma Program is a FREE program of Harris County Public Health (HCPH) that helps residents of all ages manage and control their asthma through outreach and asthma self-management classes. The program uses curricula developed by the American Lung Association: Open Airways (6 to 11 years old), Kickin' Asthma (12 to 18 years old) and Breathe Well, Live Well (18 years and older). HCPH fosters partnerships with multi-sector stakeholders to improve asthma-related health outcomes in the community.

In addition to the educational component of the program, a home assessment and modification will be available to all program participants that have completed the educational curriculum.

Interested program participants are eligible to apply for the free home assessment and modification. Participants must be a student/resident in Harris County and present asthma symptoms. Participants do not need a medical diagnosis of asthma to participate. This service is partnered with the American Lung Association and include non-invasive and minor adjustments - such as supplying dehumidifiers, changing air filters, providing green non-toxic cleaning materials, HEPA vacuums, pest traps, etc. - while offering resource guides for more extensive modifications.

What is Asthma?

According to the American Lung Association, asthma is a chronic lung disease that makes it harder to move air in and out of your lungs. It can start at any age and can be diagnosed as young as two years old. Asthma can be characterized as a chronic condition of swollen airways, extra mucus build-up, and tightening of the airway muscles. Currently, there is no cure for asthma. However, it can be treated and controlled with the proper tools and knowledge of asthma management skills.

Program Services

Asthma Self-Management Session Topics

Asthma 101
Steps to manage asthma
Asthma triggers and warning signs
Asthma emergency signs
Asthma tools and medicine
Staying active with asthma and doing well

Open Airways (Pre-K to 5th Grade)

Six 45-minute interactive asthma self-management sessions
Group discussions, problem solving, and fun games
Bilingual curriculum

Kickin' Asthma (6th to 12th Grade)

Four 45-minute interactive asthma self-management sessions including smoking and vaping education
Grouping discussions, problem solving, and fun games
Bilingual curriculum

Breathe Well, Live Well (18 years and up)