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.
Over 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. 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.
Since 1984, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has declared May as “National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month.” It is a peak season for people with asthma and allergies and a perfect time to educate patients, family, friends, co-workers, and other people about allergic diseases. Join us through May as we raise awareness […]
During National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, we also focus on food allergy awareness. A food allergy occurs when the body’s immune system sees a certain food as harmful and reacts by causing allergic symptoms. Foods that cause allergic reactions are allergens. About 20 million people in the U.S. have food allergies (16 million adults […]
The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) celebrates World Asthma Day 2026 with the theme of “Access to anti-inflammatory inhalers for everyone with asthma – still an urgent need.” GINA continues to emphasize the need to ensure that all people with asthma can access inhaled medications that are essential for controlling the underlying disease and treating […]
The New York City Asthma Network (NYCAN) is hosting a free community resource fair on World Asthma Day, May 5, 2026. Everyone is welcome. There will be free asthma education and resources, fun activities, food, giveaways, and more! Learn more.
On Tuesday, May 5, 2025, at 11:00 AM, health professionals, environmental justice advocates, and a Detroit resident living with asthma will gather at William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor to mark World Asthma Day with a clear message: Michiganders are not expendable. Asthma affects 28 million Americans, causing approximately 3,500 deaths and 1 million […]
Join us on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until noon at Hilliard Davidson High School Stadium for the 2nd annual Asthma Allies Fun Run & Walk. Hosted by Marisa’s Mascots and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, this event brings our community together to honor the people who have died from asthma […]
Kokanee Shelter at Lake Sammamish State Park, Issaquah, Washington Note: There is a fee to park. Join us for a day of community, education, and fun! The King Family and Kids with Food Allergies (KFA), a division of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), is co-hosting a free community event to celebrate Food […]
AAFA joins the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED) in recognizing National Eosinophil Awareness Week, May 17-23, 2026. The purpose of this week is to create awareness and educate both the general public and the medical community about eosinophil-associated diseases. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell. The purpose of these white blood cells […]
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) designates May 18-22 to be Type 2 Inflammation (Allergic Conditions) Awareness Week. Allergic conditions span a wide range, including asthma, seasonal allergies, eczema, hives, food allergies, nasal polyps, and mast cell disorders. This community of diseases are connected and often overlap. For example, it is common for […]
AAFA joins the EoE Day Alliance in recognizing World Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) Day on May 22, 2026. The theme selected for World EoE Day 2026 is “Food Shouldn't Hurt.” What is eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)? Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic (long-term) allergic disease that affects the esophagus – the tube that carries the water and food […]
On May 28, 2026, of National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and our division Kids with Food Allergies (KFA) are holding a Remembrance Day in honor of family members and loved ones who’ve passed from asthma or anaphylaxis. We also take time to remember other people who have needlessly […]
Valerie Vison was a beloved wife, daughter, sister, co-worker, and friend. She tragically lost her battle with mental health in 2024. Her husband of more than a decade passed a few years prior due to an asthma attack in their home. After his passing, Valerie was passionate about funding for asthma advocacy. They are why […]
Build a Dine Allergy Safe Future For the first time in U.S. history, large restaurant chains in California will be required to label the top 9 allergens on menus, starting July 1, 2026. Now we take it national. AddieTellsAll and FoodSage are proud to launch the Dine Allergy Safe Fund, a designated fund of the […]
The Black Man’s Health Festival® 2026 is back—and bigger than ever—as we celebrate 5 years. Presented by Heart, Body & Soul, Inc., in partnership with the Office of Councilmember Chi Ossé and Weeksville Heritage Center, this FREE community experience centers Black men’s wellness, joy, and transformation through culture, creativity, and connection. We’re taking over Brooklyn […]