National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month is quickly approaching, beginning on May 1st and lasting throughout the month. Millions of Americans have asthma or allergies–25 million have asthma, and 54 million have food or nasal allergies—but there are still many people who misunderstand each condition.
To increase your own awareness and understanding, discover these upcoming asthma and allergy awareness days and start commemorating.
World Asthma Day
May is one of the peak months for asthma flare-ups, which is why it was chosen as an awareness month. May 2 is World Asthma Day, which is held by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) annually. This year’s theme is “Asthma Care for All.” The initiative raises awareness for asthma, especially in developing countries where asthma mortality rates are the highest. GINA aims to encourage healthcare leaders to ensure the availability and accessibility of life-saving medications. The organization does not have organized events, but does provide a list of ideas for activities.
Food Allergy Awareness Week
May 14 marks the first day of Food Allergy and Awareness Week. Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE) has organized a campaign called TealTakeover, the signature color of food allergy awareness, to mark the event. Incorporate teal into your days throughout the week to help celebrate. You can also find infographics and messages to post on your social media on Kids With Food Allergies (KFA) and the AAFA.
Remembrance Day
Remembrance Day is held on May 27 and commemorates the lives of people who have passed away due to asthma and allergies. The day is organized by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), which claims that “one life lost to asthma or allergies is too many.” The AAFA suggests that participants blow bubbles in memoriam of the lives lost and share memories on social media and on their forums.
Ways to Get Involved
There is no better time to get involved with the allergy and asthma community than National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. These are some things you can do to support the community:
Spread Awareness
The easiest way to participate in National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month is to spread awareness about asthma and allergies. FARE, KFA, and the AAFA all offer educational resources about asthma and allergies for participants to post on social media. It is also recommended that you talk to your friends and family to bring attention to asthma and allergy-related issues.
Join a Support Group
The organizations hosting National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month have support groups for people who have allergies or asthma to connect with each other and help each other navigate life with their condition. These include the Asthma Community Network , Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, and Kids with Food Allergies.
Do you have asthma or allergies? Talk to Langford Allergy.
Dr. Langford and our team will accurately diagnose your condition and begin a treatment plan to help you achieve successful outcomes with your health. Langford Allergy offers a spirometry test to assess your breathing and conducts informative allergy tests to determine your triggers. Through diagnosis, our team can design the right treatment plan for you. Schedule an appointment or call our office to learn more: 478-787-4728