National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month is observed in May every year. This month is set aside to raise awareness about asthma and allergies and the realities of these conditions. May was chosen as National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month as it is the peak season for people with these conditions when the pollen in the air triggers attacks and affects their health. This awareness month aims to raise awareness among people who suffer from these diseases as well as their parents, relatives, co-workers, and friends so everyone can be prepared to assist.
History of National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month
National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month is celebrated across the country in May every year. The month aims to dispel myths about asthma and allergies, highlight the severity of these reactions, and explain how people can help. The events of this month are organized by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. They decided on the month of May as this is the month when the presence of pollen in the air aggravates conditions like asthma and allergies.
Asthma is an inflammatory disease that impacts the lungs, with symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The condition may be aggravated with exercise or at night, with a drop in temperature. While genetics has a role to play in asthma, environmental factors also influence the condition. These include exposure to air pollutants and allergens which irritate the lungs. The disease is lifelong and chronic, with no known cure, but is easily treatable. Allergies are caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system with symptoms ranging from wheezing and runny noses, rashes, shortness of breath, swelling, and red eyes. Pollen is one of the most common allergens. Allergic reactions can trigger or aggravate conditions like asthma, especially in peak season when pollen is in the air like May. The number of people with allergic conditions is increasing every year.
In Australian and South African universities there is research that isolates the T-cells that cause the reaction to the proteins in allergens in inhalation allergies. It just has to be tested on humans which will occur soon. New asthma treatments are also helping most (90%) patients, which is very encouraging.
National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month timeline
Asthma is recognized as a disease by perfumers in the kingdoms of Ancient Egypt.
Austrian scientist and pediatrician Clemens von Pirquet uses the term allergy to describe specific immune system reactions that he observes.
The rate of people, particularly children, is on the rise with the increase in air pollution.
Two independent research groups discover the antibody class immunoglobulin E which transforms the understanding of allergy mechanics.
A breakthrough discovery lowers the allergic inflammation reaction in mice, and research continues.
National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month FAQs
What color is associated with asthma awareness?
Grey is associated with asthma awareness. Grey ribbon clothing and awareness merchandise helps awareness and raises funds.
Can you control asthma?
Asthma has no known cure. It can be controlled to prevent or reduced.
Is asthma an autoimmune disease?
Asthma is not an autoimmune disease. It should be taken seriously because ten people a day die from it in the U.S.
How to Observe National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month
Share information about the conditions
Sharing information about the causes and symptoms of these conditions is essential. When people have information, they can ensure that they or their loved ones are getting the help they need.
Wear the awareness bracelets
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America manufactures bracelets and T-shirts. Wearing these is a great way of showing your support. It helps raise awareness and funds.
Host a fundraiser
There is no cure for people suffering from asthma and allergies, so research is crucial. Help researchers find a cure by fundraising to support their work.
5 Facts About Asthma That Will Surprise You
Many Americans have asthma
About 8.3% of the population of America has asthma, with the majority being adults.
It’s the most common childhood chronic illness
Asthma manifests in childhood and is the most common chronic illness found among children.
It is hereditary
While environmental factors can trigger it, the majority of asthma conditions are hereditary.
Extreme weather can aggravate asthma
Extreme weather that is too cold, too wet, or too dry can trigger an asthma attack.
Allergists can treat asthma
Allergists are the specialists who have the most experience treating asthma.
Why National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month is Important
We want people to be informed
We think that people are ill-informed about asthma and allergies, and how serious these conditions can be. We want to make sure that people are aware of getting help.
We want to support patients
We want to know how to help people who have a severe allergic or asthma attack. We don’t want people to suffer if we can help it.
We want to help find a cure
We know that these conditions are treatable, but people deserve to be cured. We want to help raise funds for researchers who are looking for a cure.
National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | May 1 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 1 | Saturday |
| 2028 | May 1 | Monday |
| 2029 | May 1 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | May 1 | Wednesday |
