The Columbia University Asthma Coalition Presents: "Control Your Asthma So Your Asthma Doesnt Control You"

***MEDIA ALERT***

The Columbia University Asthma Coalition Presents:

“CONTROL YOUR ASTHMA SO YOUR ASTHMA DOESN’T

CONTROL YOU”

A WORKSHOP FOR MOTHERS AND CHILDREN

WHAT: The Columbia University Asthma Coalition will sponsor a

special Mother’s Day workshop inviting children in grades 4-6 to bring

their mothers and learn about asthma.  Presentations in English and

Spanish will provide basic information about asthma and discuss triggers

and treatments for asthma.  In addition, interactive display tables

will give kids and moms an opportunity to learn about asthma first-hand

– from devices for treatment to environmental triggers that can bring on

an asthma attack.

WHY: Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways become

inflamed, interfering with breathing.  It is a genetic disease that

can be passed from mothers to children. Prevalence of this serious illness

is particularly high in inner-city communities and among African-American

and Latino individuals.  Although several triggers for asthma attacks

have been identified, such as dust, pet hair, and air pollution, the underlying

cause of the disease is still not understood.  Most people with asthma

can control their symptoms completely by using maintenance medications

that limit airway inflammation.  Education about treatments raises

awareness about effective control of asthma.

WHEN:      Saturday, May 12

10 – 11:30 a.m.

WHERE:  Alumni Auditorium

Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons

630 West 168th Street (between Broadway and Fort Washington)

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