Allergy sufferers often become so accustomed over time to chronic symptoms of sneezing, nasal congestion, or wheezing that they don't realize that this isn't good health. If you suffer from asthma or allergies, or you suspect that you may have either, an allergist will help you learn more about your condition and provide treatment that controls or eliminates your symptoms and improves your health. In cooperation with other valley physicians we reguarly conduct free asthma screening programs. The purpose of this public education campaign is to find adults and children with potential asthma. These events are usually held at schools, churches, health fairs, shopping malls and other community centers.
Volunteers are always welcome.
The sponsors may conduct a series of pilot programs in 2001 to determine if workplace screenings should be incorporated into the nationwide campaign. An estimated 10,000 adults and children were screened, with more than half referred for a professional diagnosis. Allergists continue to select screening sites that reach the most children and parents. Dr. Greg Bensch, Stockton, Calif., knew his community's Asperagus Festival would provide an excellent opportunity to reach people of all ages as they tried out anything and everything made of asparagus at an event that draws more than 100,000 people over three days. They may have suspected something with their breathing was going on, but weren't sure.