Ontario Lung Association to launch new asthma education book to mark World Asthma Day

In Ontario, an astounding 1.7 million people have asthma, making it one of the most widespread chronic diseases.  Nearly half of them don't have it under control and yet asthma is a disease that must be well managed because there is no cure.

Common asthma triggers include:  dust, grass, mould, pet fur, dander and tobacco smoke.  People with asthma should avoid their triggers as much as possible.  Asthma symptoms include: coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, airway tightness and increased mucus.

The Ontario Lung Association is launching its new asthma education book called, Taking Control, next Tuesday, May 3 to mark World Asthma Day.

Media is invited to interview:

• Dr. Itamar Tamari, a family physician with experience in asthma through the Primary Asthma Care Program.  Dr. Itamar can talk about the importance of making sure adults and children are taking their inhaled medications properly, and of having an asthma action plan to help prevent asthma attacks

• Carole Madeley, director of Respiratory Programs for the Ontario Lung Association, can speak to the need for great public awareness about asthma, some of the common misperceptions about this chronic lung disease, and how Ontarians of all ages can educate themselves through the free resources available, including the new book and mobile application, Taking Control.  Carole is bilingual and can be interviewed in English and French.

What is World Asthma Day?
World Asthma Day - this year held May 3 - is an annual event held by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) to improve asthma awareness around the globe.