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Where to Turn for Asthma
Information
While your physician is probably the single most valid source
of asthma information, there exists other numerous sources to
which you can turn. There are special agencies and
organizations, information clearinghouses as well as reputable
websites where an abundance of this type of information can be
found.
When you have the need to locate asthma information, rest
assured that your search will not leave you empty handed. There
is a plethora of asthma information available from a variety of
sources, some of which can be accessed from the comfort of your
own home using a computer.
Websites
The World Wide Web is chock full of websites that contain
asthma information. While it is always wise to consider the
source, some of the better-known websites are maintained by
such entities as The American Association for Respiratory Care,
the American Lung Association, the National Institute of
Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the American College of
Chest Physicians. Many of these groups are willing to mail
information packets, free of charge, to anyone needing asthma
information.
Organizations
There are many organizations that are wonderful sources of
information, and many of them are nation wide. Several
government initiatives also exist. Some organizations offering
asthma information include the World Health Organization, the
Environmental Protection Agency, and the National Heart, Lung
& Blood Institute. Contacting these agencies can be done by
either telephone or via the Internet. Many of them have online
catalogs available from which asthma information can be
ordered.
Other Sources
In addition to the organizations and websites, there are other
sources of asthma information that can be explored. These
include support groups, information clearinghouses, local
health alliances and research institutes, as well as
informative books and topic specific medical journals. Some
wonderful sources of asthma information include the Allergy and
Asthma Network, Allies against Asthma (a national program), the
National Jewish Medical and Research Center and the National
Asthma Education & Prevention Program.
Always be sure to check with your local social service agency,
as they will be able to direct you to local resources that will
be able to offer asthma information. There may also be local
initiatives in place in your area that might be able to afford
you the opportunity to take part in clinical trials, receive
discounted asthma medications and offer alternative treatment
options. There is a world of asthma information out there just
waiting to be explored!
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