Tagged With "allergy capitals"
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2018 Fall Allergy Capitals Report: Is Your City on Our List?
Ragweed and other fall allergens are found throughout the U.S., but some areas feel the effects more than others. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has released the 2018 Fall Allergy Capitals™ report.
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2018 Spring Allergies Capitals Report: How Does Your City Rank?
As many in the U.S. put away their winter coats, they pull out the allergy medicines. The onslaught of pollen that comes each spring affects millions of Americans with seasonal allergies. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has released the 2018 Spring Allergy Capitals™ report that ranks the top 100 cities in the nation for spring allergies
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2019 Spring Allergy Capitals: See If Your City Made Our List
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has released the 2019 Spring Allergy Capitals™ report to look at why some locations are more affected than others. Our report ranks the top 100 cities in the nation for spring allergies.
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2020 Allergy Capitals™ Report: Seasonal Rankings by City for Spring and Fall
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) 2020 Allergy Capitals™ report is now available. This report ranks the top 100 most challenging cities in the continental United States to live in with seasonal allergies. AAFA combines data from both spring and fall to create a ranking of the top 100 cities based on: Pollen counts Allergy medicine use Number of board-certified allergists available The report also includes a breakdown of seasonal rankings of the top cities for both spring...
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3 New Studies Shed Light on Penicillin Allergy
At some point you may have had a reaction to penicillin and were told you were allergic. And there’s a good chance it has stayed in your chart throughout your childhood and into adulthood. But 9 of 10 Americans who think they have a penicillin allergy have either outgrown it or never had it in the first place. That said, it’s important to get tested by an allergist to know if you have a true penicillin allergy so you know whether to avoid the drug.
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3 Ways to Keep Spring Celebrations Asthma and Allergy Friendly
3 Ways to Keep Spring Celebrations Asthma and Allergy Friendly
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5 Ways to Show Your #TealLove to Someone With Asthma or Allergies This Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day is the time of year when you show your loved ones how much they mean to you. However, many typical gifts and activities can be asthma or allergy triggers. #TealLove means choosing gifts that are allergy and asthma friendly.
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7 Things You Should Know About Oral Allergy Syndrome
Did you know pollen might be responsible for your food allergy? If your mouth or throat itch when you eat certain fruit or vegetables, you could have oral allergy syndrome (OAS). And you would have a pollen allergy to thank for that.
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A Look at the asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Process
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) joined with Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) to create the asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program. This program helps people make informed purchases for a healthier home. We test household products against strict standards. If products pass our tests, they earn the asthma & allergy friendly® mark.
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A Positive Outlook and Determination Help Teenager Overcome Asthma and Beat the Odds
During National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, there are many ways to educate others about asthma and allergies and what it’s like to live with them. We offer several tools and ideas to help you get involved. As part of this year’s focus, More Than Asthma, we want to highlight Leo Ignacio "Nacho" Adams. Faced with severe asthma from since he was an infant, Nacho's determination helped him become an active teenager, despite the odds.
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AAFA and Allergy Standards Host Allergy Summit to Elevate Industry and Consumer Perspectives to Improve Products for Allergy Aware Consumers
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) in partnership with Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) announced findings from a new market research survey aimed at better understanding patient and consumer awareness, perceptions and values of certified products and the asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program, as well as buyer behaviors and demands.
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AAFA and ASL Celebrate the 2019 US-Ireland Research Innovation Award for the asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program
During Indoor Air Quality Awareness Month, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) came together to celebrate the 2019 US-Ireland Research Innovation Award. The two organizations recently received the award for the development of the asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program.
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AAFA Applauds FDA First Steps Toward Declaring Sesame as Major Allergen
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the premiere nonprofit representing patients with asthma and allergies, applauds the recent request for information and statement from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) demonstrating its commitment to explore the classification of sesame as a major allergen.
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AAFA Brings Perspective of Asthma, Allergy Patients to FDA
What is it like to have food allergies, asthma, or nasal allergies? What do patients need and want from their treatments? How can we improve allergy care? The chief executive officer of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America spoke about these issues at a recent FDA advisory committee meeting. Dr. Cary Sennett spoke to the Allergenic Products Committee about the everyday challenges of life with food allergies, asthma and other allergies. Dr. Sennett attended the meeting to represent...
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AAFA CEO Shares Patient Concerns About Restrictions to Allergen Immunotherapy
AAFA does not support the changes proposed by USP because we believe they pose a real threat to quality of care. We strongly urge the USP to keep existing guidelines for allergen immunotherapy in place so that millions of patients across the United States can continue to receive the treatment they need.
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AAFA CEO to Bike Across Michigan for Asthma and Allergy Awareness
AAFA President and CEO Dr. Cary Sennett and his wife Sara are about to bike through Michigan. They are partnering with AAFA’s Michigan Chapter, to raise awareness (and funds) to improve the lives of people with asthma in Michigan and across the country.
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AAFA Co-Sponsored Report Provides Recommendations for Food Allergy Research, Treatment, and Policy
[Press Release] PR Contact: Adam Bailine, Vice President, Marketing & Communications (202) 466-7643, ext. 254 abailine@aafa.org AAFA Co-Sponsored Report Provides Recommendations for Food Allergy Research, Treatment, and Policy With support from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine releases a monumental report that makes recommendations to increase our understanding of and approaches to food allergies November...
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AAFA Delivers the Facts on Allergy Shots
In January we told you about proposed regulations that could limit your access to allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots). The U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention (USP) is proposing rules that would likely limit the ability of allergists to mix allergen extracts for their patients. That may mean that allergy shots are simply not available to many people - or are available, but not covered by insurance. The insurance coverage of this treatment may also be restricted. The Asthma and Allergy...
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AAFA Elevates Patient Voice in ICER Review of New Peanut Allergy Treatments
On June 11, 2019, in Oakland, California, the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) and its California Technology Assessment Forum (CTAF) met to assess the clinical effectiveness and value of treatments for peanut allergy. The review examined two new technologies to induce immune tolerance — Viaskin® Peanut (DBV Technologies) and AR101 (Aimmune Therapeutics) — as well as non-commercialized oral immunotherapy (OIT).
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AAFA Explains: Allergy Shots—Fighting the Cause of Allergies
If you are one of the 50 million Americans living with allergies, you’re probably familiar with the tell-tale signs of allergies, such as sneezing, itchy nose, and watery eyes. But do you know what causes these symptoms? Let’s start at the beginning. An allergy is a disease of the immune system. The body’s immune system receives input from the environment and produces a response. Its purpose is to recognize and attack foreign invaders, such as bacteria and parasites. An allergy occurs when...
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AAFA Explains: Can Herbal Supplements Help My Nasal Allergies?
When new drugs and medical procedures are developed, they go through rigorous scientific study. Complementary Alternative Medicine treatments usually do not go through the same type of research. As a result, whether it works (called efficacy) is unproven for most treatments. Most herbal remedies for rhinitis fall into that category.
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AAFA Explains: What Is the Difference Between Alternative and Complementary Medicine?
What is the difference between alternative, complementary and integrative medicine? The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) wants you to know what these mean so that you can make informed healthcare choices. Complementary medicine refers to something you do or take along with treatment your doctor tells you to follow. Alternative medicine refers to something you do or take instead of your regular treatment. Integrative health care is the practice of combining complementary and...
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AAFA Issues Parental Guidance Warning About New Peter Rabbit Film
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) cautions parents raising children with food allergies that some scenes in the newly-released “Peter Rabbit” film may be disturbing for young viewers with food allergies. In the film, a character with a known food allergy to blackberries is attacked with them. This leads to a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis and the need to use a lifesaving injection of the drug epinephrine.
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AAFA Meets With DOT Alongside Other Disability Advocacy Groups to Discuss Service Animal Regulations for Airlines
Today, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation (AAFA) met with the Department of Transportation alongside several disability advocacy groups. We discussed service animal regulations and the impact of growing numbers of emotional support animals on airlines. We shared how difficult it is to travel when you have asthma and/or pet dander allergy. We’re working together to ensure people are treated fairly when it comes to disability accommodations—and not privileging one disability type over another.
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AAFA Meets With DOT to Advocate for Equal Rights for People With Asthma and Allergies on Planes
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) met with the Office of the General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). We spoke with members of their Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings and Consumer Protection Division on behalf of people with asthma and allergies. We shared how critical it is that people with asthma and allergies who have to be on planes with emotional support animals have equal rights.
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AAFA’s asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program Celebrates 10 Successful Years
This spring allergy season marks the 10th anniversary of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s (AAFA) asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program. The 60 million Americans with asthma and allergies have learned to trust certified consumer products and services when they see the Certification Mark on a product label. Certified products and services have been tested against strict scientific standards and shown to be suitable for families with asthma o
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AAFA’s Certification Program Expands to Improve Air Quality and Reduce Your Exposure to Allergens
In 2017, the asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program tested and certified many new products to give you more options. When you’re shopping, look for the Certification Program Mark on these new products, as well as our many other products. The mark lets you know you are getting products scientifically proven to be suitable for those with asthma and allergies. You can shop for Certified products by visiting aafa.org/certified or by using our app. Our app is available for both iOS...
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AAFA Tackles Childhood Asthma and Allergies
Asthma and allergies impact one in five children in the United States. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) exhibited at the 2019 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) conference to learn the latest news in pediatrics and to talk to health care providers about the programs and services we offer.
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Access to Allergy Shots at Risk
The FDA issued a proposed guidance titled “Insanitary Conditions at Compounding Facilities: Guidance for Industry”. It would likely limit the ability of doctors to provide allergy shots in their offices. The proposed guidance applies to any facility, including doctor offices, that prepares sterile compounds. This includes allergy shots for immunotherapy. AAFA urges you to contact your members of Congress and tell them that you oppose the FDA Guidance. TAKE ACTION NOW Tell Congress it will...
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Act Now to Help Save Health Care Protections for Those With Asthma and Allergies
On Sept. 13, 2017, Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) introduced a new bill to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The ACA includes protections for those with pre-existing conditions. Their goal is to vote on the repeal before Sept. 30, 2017.
This bill, commonly called the Graham-Cassidy bill, could cause millions of Americans to lose health insurance. If passed, health insurance could become unaffordable for people with chronic conditions and low incomes.
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Air Cleaners: What You Need to Know
For many people, the health risks posed by indoor air quality can often be significantly higher than outdoor air. Animal dander, pollen, mold, dust mites and fumes released by cooking, burning fuel or cleaning products can all negatively impact your indoor air. One way you can improve your indoor air quality is with a CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® air cleaner. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for an air cleaner.
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Allergy and Asthma Control Starts in the Bedroom
Allergic disease, including asthma, is the fifth leading chronic disease in the U.S. in people of all ages. There is no cure for asthma. The best way to manage asthma is to avoid triggers, take medicines to prevent symptoms and prepare to treat asthma episodes.
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An Important Voice for People with Asthma and Allergies
Patients should have access to new, life-saving and life-enhancing treatments for asthma and allergies. We are proud to announce: AAFA’s CEO, Dr. Cary Sennett, will be advocating on your behalf to state insurance commissioners. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners is the professional association for the regulators within each U.S. state and territory who establish and monitor the standards for healthcare insurance programs. They chose Dr. Sennett to represent the...
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Are You Controlling Allergens in Your Bedroom?
We spend approximately one-third of our time in the bedroom. Dust mites and mold – both of which are common indoor allergens – thrive in furniture, carpets and bedding. They love moisture! You can reduce these allergens by taking some simple steps, including regular cleaning and using CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® products.
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Ask the Allergist: Does Eczema Affect Allergy Testing?
I have eczema and seasonal allergies. My doctor wants to do a skin test to see if I should get allergy shots. Can I get allergy shots if I have eczema? Does eczema affect the accuracy of allergy skin test results?
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Asthma and Allergies: Ways You Can Protect Yourself During COVID-19 (Webinar)
Join the MedicAlert Foundation and Kenneth Mendez, CEO and president of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), for a webinar on how people with asthma and allergies can protect themselves during COVID-19 (the new coronavirus).
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Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America Appoints Kenneth Mendez as CEO
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has appointed Kenneth Mendez as its president and chief executive officer, effective January 22, 2018. Mendez has built his career in senior leadership by successfully growing the reach of numerous non-profit organizations, a track record he now brings to AAFA in support of its mission to improve the health and quality of life for more than 60 million Americans with asthma and allergies.
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Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America Responds to Premature ICER Review of New Peanut Allergy Treatments
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) addresses concerns regarding the Final Evidence Report assessing the clinical effectiveness and value of treatments for peanut allergy released by the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) on July 10, 2019. ICER’s report may cause concern for the allergy community that the findings will restrict access to new treatments for peanut allergy.
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Asthma and Allergy Friendly Gift Guide for 2017
Shopping for someone with asthma and allergies this holiday season? Products to help them reduce asthma and allergy triggers make great gifts. Look for Certified asthma & allergy friendly® products this holiday season.
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Asthma and Allergy Friendly Holiday Gifts for 2015
Look for this mark on a package, so you know that product is scientifically proven to be more suitable for those with asthma and allergies.
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Asthma and Allergy Research Review, April-June 2017
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America will recap some of the top research on allergies and asthma every quarter. Here is a look at studies reported between April and June 2017. Learn why some children may not respond to asthma treatments, how testosterone may affect asthma and more.
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Asthma Is Responsible for 2 Million Emergency Room Visits Each Year
Asthma is the third-leading cause of hospital stays in children. Hospitalizations among children are higher during Asthma Peak Week in September when children return to school and are exposed to more asthma triggers, allergens and respiratory infections.
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Avoid Food Allergy Reactions During the Holidays
During the holiday season, our calendars fill up with a lot of social activities. More often than not, these include food. If you or a member of your family has a food allergy, these events can be more stressful than fun. Follow these tips to keep everyone safe from accidental allergic reactions.
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Babies With A Dog in the Home May Have a Lower Risk of Asthma and Eczema
Two studies being presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting show there may be even more reason to love your dog.
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Bedroom Hygiene Is Crucial for Healthy Sleep Hygiene
Frequent sleep disturbances and daytime sleepiness are the most telling signs of poor sleep hygiene according to the National Sleep Foundation. Sleep disturbances are commonly reported by people with asthma, eczema and allergies.
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Brace Yourselves, Spring Is Coming
You may still see snow where you live, but don't be fooled: spring is just around the corner. If you have a pollen allergy , get ready now and start your treatment plan. Start taking allergy medicine before pollen season begins. Most allergy medicines work best when taken this way. This allows the medicine to prevent your body from releasing histamine and other chemicals that cause your symptoms. Tree pollen already elevated in Southern U.S. Map will spread northward in coming weeks. Start...
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Building and Remodeling When You Have Asthma and Allergies: Paint, Flooring and Insulation
Before you start a home building or renovation project, consider how the products you use or install may impact the overall health of your home. During construction, a lot of dust is generated and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be released. It’s important to consider choosing materials that emit fewer gases or other asthma triggers.
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Can Insulation Affect Your Asthma and Allergies?
This content is sponsored While insulation may not be the first thing on your mind when making your home healthy for your family, it can make a huge impact for people with allergies. One of the biggest indoor allergens is mold , which can affect people year round if it is found inside of the home. When choosing an insulation, it is important to find one that is mold and mildew-resistant. Many products claim to be better for people with asthma and allergies, so it’s sometimes hard to know if...
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Can You Prevent Allergies by Sucking on Your Baby’s Pacifier to Clean It?
If the thought of sucking your baby’s pacifier to clean it and then popping it in your baby’s mouth grosses you out, think again. New research being presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting suggests a link between parental sucking on a pacifier and a lower allergic response among young children.
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Caring for a Child With Asthma and Allergies: The Value of Providing Parents With Peace of Mind
In the summer of 2017, Alexis Fetterman and her parents had an unexpected introduction to asthma and allergies . Alexis was 2 years old and got sick with a respiratory virus. After a visit to the emergency room, she was admitted to the hospital and flown to a nearby children’s hospital. After a few days in the hospital, Alexis was diagnosed with asthma. “The hospital stay was a really traumatic experience. Since then, I’ve immersed myself in learning about asthma and allergies. I want to...