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What is Asthma?

Asthma is a serious chronic disease of the lungs that is caused by swelling (inflammation) in the airways. Asthma afflicts people of all ages and backgrounds.

While there is no cure for asthma, it can be prevented and controlled with proper care. 

People with asthma can live normal, active lives.

Most of the morbidity and mortality from asthma can be prevented if the disease is managed according to established guidelines. Health care providers, people with asthma and their caregivers can learn ways to prevent, treat and control asthma, and decrease the number of hospital visits and missed school and work days.

For more information, please see Frequently Asked Questions.


Department of Health and Senior Services

P. O. Box 360, Trenton, NJ 08625-0360
Phone: (609) 292-7837
Toll-free in NJ: 1-800-367-6543
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Last Modified: Tuesday, 18-Dec-07 15:05:57