Ruby Marentes Cabrera News Today

MADERA, Calif. — Growing up amid the dusty agricultural fields of the Central Valley, Ruby Marentes-Cabrera can’t recall a time when it wasn’t difficult to breathe.

Growing up amid the dusty agricultural fields of the Central Valley, Ruby Marentes-Cabrera can't recall a time when it wasn't difficult to breathe.

The disease — exacerbated by air pollution and indoor threats like harsh cleaning products, cockroach infestations, dust and mold — hits low-income communities the hardest.

In January, California’s Medicaid program will begin helping low-income asthma patients with services such as replacing mattresses and installing air purifiers. The rollout promises to be chaotic.