In the sixth episode of our series on asthma, we learn more about how asthma is affected by what’s on all of our minds in the hot summer months: climate change. With Elena Grossman, we hear about the specific challenges of handling a condition that is difficult to see, particularly with regards to health equity, and how seasonal changes, flooding, forest fires, and other environmental hazards impact respiratory and public health.  

Elena Grossman has over 20 years of experience in community and stakeholder engagement with public and private entities in rural and urban areas. Her focus has been in the areas of climate change, health, equity, and clean energy technologies, and she utilizes participatory research methods. She was a Senior Research Specialist at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) School of Public Health and is now a lecturer for Yale University’s Climate Change and Health Certificate program, teaching the Climate Adaptation and Human Health course. As the Program Director of the Climate and Health Institute, she works with students and community partners to develop knowledge, awareness, and strategies related to climate change and health equity.