Since 1984, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has designated May to be National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. We observe this special time of the year to educate, advocate, and empower the millions of individuals affected by these chronic conditions. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), over 100 million people in the U.S. live with asthma or allergies. That’s nearly one in three individuals facing symptoms that can range from mild inconvenience to life-threatening emergencies. WHY MAY?Springtime is more than just blooming flowers and warmer weather—it also brings a spike in pollen, mold, and other environmental triggers. For those with asthma or allergic conditions like hay fever, eczema, or food allergies, this season can mean daily discomfort, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. UNDERSTANDING THE CONDITIONS Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. While there is no cure, it can often be managed with medication and trigger avoidance. Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, or insect stings. Allergic reactions can range from sneezing to life-threatening anaphylaxis. How You Can Get Involved Whether you're directly affected or simply want to support the cause, here are ways to participate: Educate yourself and others. Share facts and resources on social media. Advocate for clean air policies, better healthcare access, and funding for allergy and asthma research. Support those in your community. Listen, offer help, and be prepared in emergencies—learn how to use an epinephrine auto-injector or an asthma inhaler. Participate in events like walks, fundraisers, or webinars hosted by organizations such as AAFA. SPREAD THE WORD Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month is a reminder that breathing easy isn’t something to take for granted. Finding comfort and relief from allergies and asthma is challenging.By spreading knowledge and compassion, we can help improve lives and gain peace of mind.