The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), a not-for-profit organization founded in 1953, is the leading patient organization for people with asthma and allergies, and the oldest asthma and allergy patient group in the world.
Nearly 28 million people in the United States have asthma. The best way to manage asthma is to avoid triggers, take medications to prevent symptoms, and prepare to treat asthma episodes if they occur.
Allergies are one of the most common chronic diseases. An allergy occurs when the body’s immune system sees a substance as harmful and overreacts to it. The substances that cause allergic reactions are allergens.
AAFA offers a variety of educational programs, resources and tools for patients, caregivers, and health professionals. AAFA launches educational awareness campaigns throughout the year. We teach the general public about asthma and allergic diseases.
Research is an important part of our pursuit of better health. Through research, we gain better understanding of illnesses and diseases, new medicines, ways to improve quality of life and cures. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) conducts and promotes research for asthma and allergic diseases.
AAFA works to support public policies that will benefit people with asthma and allergies. Advocacy and public policy work are important for protecting the health and safety of those with asthma and allergies. We advocate for federal and state legislation as well as regulatory actions that will help you.
There are several ways you can support AAFA in its mission to provide education and support to patients and families living with asthma and allergies. You can make a donation, fundraise for AAFA, take action in May for Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, and join a community to get the help and support you need.
This collection of 12 videos are part of AAFA’s project: Promoting Asthma Patient Engagement in Research (PAPER). We believe that patients have a valuable voice and an important role in advancing research.
Full Program Video: Patient Engagement in Asthma Research
This compilation is 37:20 minutes long and includes all of our project’s episodes in one video. If you would rather watch shorter episodes, you can find them below.
This video talks about what asthma is, what happens during an asthma episode and what asthma feels like.
Asthma Symptoms
Learn the most common symptoms of asthma and how asthma is diagnosed.
Different Levels of Asthma
In this video, learn about the four types of asthma and signs you could have uncontrolled asthma.
Warning Signs of an Asthma Attack
If you have asthma, you should know the signs of a severe asthma attack and asthma zones. Learn what to look for and when to seek emergency medical help.
Asthma Triggers
Triggers can make your asthma worse. They can cause your airway to become inflamed. Find out more about common asthma triggers in this video.
Asthma Treatment
A proper treatment plan created by your doctor can help you manage your asthma. This can include medicines, avoiding triggers and following an Asthma Action Plan. Discover types of asthma medicines used to treat asthma and how your involvement in research can improve asthma treatment.
Why We Need Asthma Research
Research helps experts better understand asthma. It also helps them develop better treatments. This video explains what research is and its benefits.
Finding Accurate Research Information
Access to information helps you be an active part of your medical care. But not everything you read is accurate. Learn some basics on how to find information you can trust.
Outcome Measures
Outcomes measures are a key part of research. Find out what outcome measures are and what role they play in the results of research.
Clinical Research
Learn what clinical research is, who conducts research and who can participate.
Clinical Trials
Many people participate in clinical trials to help researchers find new treatments. Find out more about the four phases of clinical trials and their role in asthma research.
Acknowledgements
This project was made possible by a grant from the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI): Contract #2207-AAFA.
Over the past 15 years, there have been moderate advances in U.S. public policy, health care and research, but racial gaps in asthma outcomes have not changed. Minority groups continue to bear disproportionate hardship in managing asthma.
Allergy Capitals
Your location can have an impact on your seasonal allergies. AAFA’s Allergy Capitals™ report looks at the top 100 most challenging cities in the continental United States to live with seasonal pollen allergies.
Over the past 15 years, there have been moderate advances in U.S. public policy, health care and research, but racial gaps in asthma outcomes have not changed. Minority groups continue to bear disproportionate hardship in managing asthma.
