A new study reveals that a staggering 1 in 6 American adults with asthma can’t afford their essential medications. That’s over 3 million people skipping inhalers or delaying refills due to high costs.
The Consequences are Serious
This isn’t just about saving money; it’s about saving lives. Researchers found that people who skimp on their asthma meds are:
- Twice as likely to suffer asthma attacks.
- 60% more likely to end up in the emergency room.
A Silver Lining?
The good news is that things seem to be slowly improving. The number of people unable to afford their asthma medications has dropped from 23% in 2011 to 13% in 2022. This is likely due to increased access to healthcare through the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid expansion.
What Can Be Done?
While the trend is moving in the right direction, millions of Americans still struggle to breathe easy due to the high cost of medications. Experts suggest that further action is needed to ensure everyone with asthma has access to affordable treatment. This might include:
- Increased government assistance for prescription drug costs.
- Negotiating lower drug prices with pharmaceutical companies.
- Expanding access to generic asthma medications.
The Takeaway
Asthma is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not properly managed. The fact that millions of Americans are forced to choose between their health and their wallets is a major public health concern. Addressing the issue of medication affordability is crucial to improving the lives of those living with asthma.
Source: US New and World Report