Asthma Risk Index
What is the Asthma Risk Index?
The Asthma Risk Index is a comprehensive tool that evaluates multiple environmental factors known to trigger or worsen asthma symptoms, including air quality (AQI), pollen concentration, extreme humidity (both very high and very low), and extreme temperatures. This index is especially valuable for people with asthma, as it helps identify days when environmental triggers are elevated, allowing proactive planning of activities and adjustment of preventive medications as needed. High-risk conditions may include combinations such as polluted air with high pollen, or very cold temperatures with low humidity, which can cause airway constriction and exacerbate symptoms. It is crucial to understand that this index does not substitute for professional medical guidance and that people with asthma should always follow their individualized medical action plans.
How is the Asthma Risk Index calculated?
- Air quality (AQI): Polluted air (low AQI, below 5) significantly increases the asthma risk index, as particles and pollutants irritate airways and can trigger attacks. Clean air (high AQI, above 7) reduces the risk.
- Pollen count: High pollen concentrations (above 50 grains/m³) increase the index, as pollen is a common allergen that can trigger allergic asthma symptoms. Low concentrations reduce the risk.
- Extreme humidity: Very high humidity (above 80%) or very low humidity (below 30%) increases the index, as both can irritate airways. Moderate humidity (40-60%) is ideal and reduces the risk.
- Extreme temperatures: Very cold temperatures (below 0°C or 32°F) or very hot temperatures (above 32°C or 90°F) increase the index, as they can cause airway constriction. Moderate temperatures (15-25°C or 59-77°F) reduce the risk.
Understanding the Asthma Risk Index Scale (0-10)
Asthma Risk Index: Top Cities Comparison
| City | Country | Today | Tomorrow | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | Japan | 1 / 10 Very Low | 5 / 10 Moderate | +4 |
| Osaka | Japan | 2 / 10 Very Low | 4 / 10 Low | +2 |
| Kyoto | Japan | 1 / 10 Very Low | 2 / 10 Very Low | +1 |
| London | United Kingdom | 2 / 10 Very Low | 0 / 10 Very Low | -2 |
| Rome | Italy | 2 / 10 Very Low | 0 / 10 Very Low | -2 |
| Paris | France | 3 / 10 Low | 1 / 10 Very Low | -2 |
| Delhi | India | 5 / 10 Moderate | 4 / 10 Low | -1 |
| Florence | Italy | 2 / 10 Very Low | 1 / 10 Very Low | -1 |
| New York City | United States | 3 / 10 Low | 1 / 10 Very Low | -2 |
| Hanoi | Vietnam | 1 / 10 Very Low | 1 / 10 Very Low | 0 |
Asthma Risk Index: Tips & Recommendations
- Always carry inhaler
- Avoid intense exercise in high-risk conditions
- Monitor symptoms and adjust activities accordingly
- Consult doctor about asthma action plan