PALM SPRINGS, Calif. – Since Hurricane Hilary hit in August 2023, air quality in the Coachella Valley has been in the spotlight. News Channel 3 has highlighted ongoing concerns about the health impacts of poor air quality.
Greg Rodriguez, Vice President of the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation, says they’re seeing a rise in asthma cases. Poor air quality, caused by ozone and airborne particles, can lead to serious breathing issues, including coughing and asthma attacks.
To tackle this issue, the Desert Healthcare District is partnering with local healthcare providers to educate the community. They are planning an event called the Healthy Desert, Healthy You Environmental Health Summit.
Last year, the Summit distributed one million dollars to support initiatives aimed at improving environmental health. Rodriguez noted, “After Hurricane Hilary, we noticed a significant increase in health-related complaints linked to air quality. This highlighted the need for collaboration among local organizations already focused on environmental issues.” This collective effort led to the establishment of the first Summit, which aimed to tackle these pressing concerns.
The upcoming Summit will take place on September 11th and 12th, featuring engaging discussions and vendors dedicated to health and wellness. Topics will include renewable energy and green technology, shedding light on solutions to combat environmental challenges.
For more details on the Healthy Desert, Healthy You Environmental Health Summit, check out healthydeserthealthyyou.com.
In recent years, studies have shown that poor air quality can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory diseases. According to the American Lung Association, nearly 25 million Americans have asthma, and the rates are rising, especially in areas with high pollution levels. This makes the work of the Desert Healthcare District increasingly important.
On social media, people have been sharing their experiences with air quality issues and asthma attacks, revealing a trend of rising concern among residents. Many are looking for solutions and willing to engage in community efforts like the Environmental Health Summit.
As our awareness of environmental health grows, so does the potential for collective action. Events like the Summit not only raise awareness but also help direct resources where they’re most needed, creating a healthier future for the Coachella Valley.