By Reginia Dodson, Intern and UAB Community Health and Human Services Student

 Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and the African American community is disproportionately affected by this condition. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), African Americans are three times more likely to die from asthma-related causes than non-Hispanic whites (2021). Environmental factors contribute to the higher incidence of asthma in African American communities. Poor air quality, exposure to pollutants, and lack of access to green spaces are all associated with an increased risk of asthma (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2021).  

One potential solution to reducing the incidence of asthma in African American communities is the planting of female trees in green spaces. Female trees are known for their ability to capture and filter pollutants from the air, such as nitrogen dioxide and ozone, which are known asthma triggers. Studies have shown that planting female trees in urban areas can significantly improve air quality and reduce the risk of asthma (Donovan et al., 2013). Female trees produce less pollen than male trees, making them more suitable for individuals with pollen allergies, which can trigger asthma symptoms (U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2021).

In addition to improving air quality, green spaces have been shown to positively impact overall health and well-being. Access to green spaces can improve mental health, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote physical activity, all of which contribute to improve respiratory health (Kondo et al., 2018).  Community-based programs that encourage the planting of female trees in green spaces can effectively reduce the incidence of asthma in African American communities. These programs can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the community and provide education on the benefits of green spaces and the importance of respiratory health.

In conclusion, asthma is a significant health issue that disproportionately affects African American communities. Planting female trees in green spaces can improve air quality and reduce the risk of asthma, promoting overall health and well-being. Community-based programs that promote the planting of female trees in green spaces effectively reduce the incidence of asthma and improve respiratory health outcomes in African American communities.

 

References:

 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Asthma in the U.S. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/asthma_stats/default.htm.

 

Donovan, G. H., Butry, D. T., Michael, Y. L., Prestemon, J. P., Liebhold, A. M., Gatziolis, D., & Mao, M. Y. (2013). The relationship between trees and human health: evidence from the spread of the emerald ash borer. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 44(2), 139-145.

 

Kondo, M. C., Fluehr, J. M., McKeon, T., Branas, C. C., & Mobile, V. M. (2018). Urban green space and its impact on human health. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15(3), 445.

 

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021). What Is Asthma? Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma

 

U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2021). Female and Male Trees. Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees/difference-between-female-and-male-trees