Nationwide Asthma Screening Program: Free Screenings!

Filed in archive Allergy: Diagnostics and Treatment , Asthma , Living with Allergies on May 21, 2006

The month of May is the National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. Last week, we concentrated on Food Allergies. Also ongoing this month, and beyond, are free asthma screenings, as the American College of Allergy, Asthma and immunology (ACAAI) launches this year's annual U.S. Nationwide Asthma Screening Program. Free screenings for children and adults with breathing problems such as chronic coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath will be held at more than 300 locations across the country.

During the screening, adults complete a 20-question Life Quality Test developed by the ACAAI. Children under age 15 (or their parents) answer questions on a special Kids' Asthma Check test. Screening participants also take a lung function test and meet with an allergist to determine if they should seek a thorough examination and diagnosis.

If you, or someone you know, suffer from asthmatic symptoms, get screened and secure medical advice. As the slogan goes: Don't let asthma take your breath away. Find a screening site near you. The screenings run til September in some areas.