Asthma Rescue Campaign

What is the "Asthma Rescue" Initiative?

In the United States, 17.6 million adults suffer from asthma. Nearly four million of those are children. Recent reports show that the greatest increase in asthma cases is among African-Americans, Hispanics and the underserved living in the nation's inner cities. African Americans, Hispanic adults and children are as much as four to five times more likely than whites to die from asthma. Additionally, these minorities tend to suffer from allergies and other severe illnesses at a disproportionately higher rate than Caucasians.

Unfortunately, these increases have occurred despite improvements in medical treatments of asthma. One main underlying problem is lack of knowledge by physicians in the inner cities about these illnesses and effective treatment.

As a result, we at The National Medical Association (NMA) feel that there is a dire need for a nationwide campaign that speaks to physicians, the public, African-Americans and the underserved. The National Medical Associations "Asthma Rescue Campaign" introduces a much-needed initiative to help reduce the incidence of asthma among minorities. The campaign is designed to educate physicians, health care professionals, community leaders, politicians and the media about the issues and is aimed at improving public awareness about asthma and allergies and medical treatment in targeted areas around the country.

Last year in an effort to reduce the high incidences of asthma among minorities, The National Medical Association declared asthma a public health emergency. This year, under the direction of Dr. Michael LeNoir, the NMA will launch a nationwide campaign that will tap into vast community resources and focus on four specific areas: physician education, research, community and public awareness.

By enlisting the help of strategic community partners and local leaders with established and trusted ties within each community, The National Medical Association plans to reach as many people as possible within the target audiences. We feel that this campaign will address the problem head on and provide the most effective solutions needed to reduce these illnesses.