PHOENIX, Ariz. (July 10, 2025) – Denova Collaborative Health has partnered with the American Lung Association to provide valuable educational resources and action plans for patients managing chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This collaboration ensures that vulnerable patients—particularly those living in high-pollution areas with limited access to care—have the tools they need to manage their lung health more effectively.
“Too often, we treat chronic conditions without addressing the environmental factors that make them worse,” said Dr. Misbah Altaf, Leading Provider at Denova Collaborative Health. “This partnership helps us give patients more than just medication—it gives them knowledge, tools and support to manage their lung health in real-world conditions like poor air quality and extreme heat.”
Many of Denova’s patients reside in communities disproportionately affected by poor air quality. Phoenix ranked fourth worst metropolitan area for ozone pollution in the American Lung Association’s State of the Air 2025 report, and Maricopa County reports high rates of asthma and COPD among both adults and children. In fact, 16% of adults and 8% of children in Maricopa County live with one of these chronic conditions.
“For those already struggling to breathe, poor air quality is more than a nuisance, it’s a serious health threat,” Dr. Altaf added. “This partnership is essential for improving the health of Denova’s patients, many of whom have limited access to green spaces, parks or other environmental health resources.”
Supporting Lung Health Through Education and Awareness
Through this new partnership, Denova will provide patients with action plans that include practical steps for managing symptoms and reducing exposure risks. Patients will also receive real-time air quality alerts and guidance on how to adjust daily routines on high-pollution days. These tools are critical in helping individuals navigate environmental challenges, avoid flare-ups and maintain a better quality of life.
With extreme heat worsening local air quality, ozone levels are spiking during Arizona’s long summers, intensifying risks for those with existing lung issues. Children are especially vulnerable due to their developing lungs and higher respiration rates.
A Shared Commitment to Health and Well-being
This initiative reflects Denova’s commitment to whole-person care, which considers not only medical and mental health, but also the environmental and social factors that impact well-being.
“Air quality has a direct impact on those with asthma and COPD, and we’re proud to collaborate with the American Lung Association to provide our patients with the education and resources they need to improve their health,” said Dr. Altaf.
By working with the American Lung Association, Denova continues to prioritize integrated, accessible care that meets the needs of underserved communities—ensuring patients are equipped to manage chronic illness even in the face of rising environmental challenges.
About Denova Collaborative Health
Denova Collaborative Health is transforming healthcare through a compassionate, whole-person approach that integrates mental health, primary care, and behavioral health services. With nine locations across Arizona and a robust telehealth program, Denova offers same-day and next-day appointments to ensure immediate care for patients. Denova is Arizona’s first and only URAC-accredited telehealth behavioral health provider, making quality care accessible to those who need it most.
About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.
