World Asthma Day - In Action - Brief Article

School Administrator, May, 2002

Asthma is the most common long-term childhood disease, affecting 4.8 million children. It is one of the leading causes of school absenteeism, accounting for over 10 million missed school days each year. World Asthma Day 2002 will take place on May 7 as a kickoff for Asthma and Allergy Month. The goal of World Asthma Day is to:

* Raise awareness about the fact that asthma is a serious public health problem, especially among school-aged children.

* Increase recognition of the symptoms of asthma

* Communicate scientific progress being made.

* Involve public authorities and patient organizations in implementing effective asthma management programs.

You can help AASA's efforts toward these goals by making the facilities in your district "asthma proof." To learn more about what you can do, visit AASA Online at www.aasa.org.