MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – An alarming new study shows the health risks for baby boomers with asthma increase significantly as they get older. In today’s Health Watch, we’re learning the disease is often misdiagnosed and not treated properly.

The study shows when baby boomers with asthma enter their 60s, they have a 14 times greater risk of death than younger patients. Their overall general health is worse, too.

The boomers have a greater sensitivity to allergies and increased body pains.

An alarming number of older patients are often misdiagnosed or undertreated, which can lead to serious complications, including decreased lung function.

Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing.

People with a family history of asthma are also at higher risk.