By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – McLean County has a higher rate of asthma sufferers than the rest of Illinois – and with World Asthma Day coming on Tuesday – educators want to help people better manage the disease.

Eighteen percent of McLean County residents have asthma, compared to 13.3 percent statewide based on the most recent data compiled in 2006.

“That may be due to our large farm area, since asthma can be triggered by many factors, including different allergens in the air,” said McLean County Health Department health prevention specialist Marissa Thomas.

Thomas said the department is marking World Asthma Day by presenting books and other materials to help grade school children cope with asthma.

The health department also has an asthma action plan on its website at www.health.mcleancountyil.gov. Thomas said that will prepare school staff, coaches and child care providers and other who are in regular contact with any child who has asthma.

“We strongly recommend those living with asthma come up with an asthma action plan with their health care provider in order to provide information and educate those closely associated with them,” Thomas said.

Asthma is a chronic lifelong disease that afflicts 26 million Americans. While it can’t be cured, it’s possible to manage asthma and prevent asthma attacks.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].