Free Asthma Screenings Are Coming in May

During May, adults and children with breathing problems can find out if they have asthma during the 11th Annual Nationwide Asthma Screening Program, sponsored by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). In addition to identifying people who might be at risk for asthma, the screening program allows those who already know they have asthma to talk with an allergist about their disease and learn how to keep symptoms under control.
Allergists, working with community physicians and allied health professionals, will conduct the free asthma screenings at shopping malls, civic centers, health fairs and other accessible locations throughout the country. The screening program will also focus on increasing awareness of asthma in children under age 5.
As part of the screening, adults will complete a 20-question Life Quality (LQ) Test developed by ACAAI for the program. Children under age 15 will take a special test called the Kids’ Asthma Check. Another version of the Check is available for parents of children up to age 8 to complete on their child’s behalf. Participants also will take a lung function test and meet with an allergist to determine if they should seek a thorough examination and diagnosis.
For a list of asthma screening locations and dates or to take online versions of the LQ Test and Kids’ Asthma Check, visit http://www.acaai.organd click on Member Information. Screening locations and dates will be available at this site beginning April 11.