Fox News congressional correspondent Aishah Hasnie has the latest on the impact of the hurricane on patient care on 'America Reports.' As Florida residents brace for the landfall of Hurricane Milton , the American Lung Association (ALA) is offering guidance for those with chronic lung conditions. Nearly half a million people in Tampa Bay live with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer or other chronic lung conditions, according to the ALA.
People who live with chronic lung conditions could be at a greater risk during a natural disaster like Hurricane Milton and Helene, according to Steven Riddle, executive director of the Tampa division of the American Lung Association. HURRICANE EFFECTS POSE 'TREMENDOUS' HEALTH HAZARDS FOR AMERICANS, DOCTOR WARNS "High winds kick up dirt, allergens and other irritants that can exacerbate asthma, COPD and other lung conditions," he told Fox News Digital. Nearly half a million people in Tampa Bay live with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer or other chronic lung conditions.
(iStock) "People who rely on supplemental oxygen are extremely vulnerable during a power outage, which is why we recommend securing a back-up power source." Floodwaters can also be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, oil, gas and other dangerous substances that can pose health risks to everyone, he warned. HURRICANE FLOODING: 3 HEALTH WARNINGS ABOUT MOLD GROWING IN YOUR HOME "Mold can grow anywhere there is water or dampn.