A new tool developed by the American Lung Association underscores the right to breathe clean air at home and at school, the right to play sports with a doctor's agreement, the right to stay inside if air pollution levels are too high, and the right to carry asthma medications. The Kids With Asthma Bill of Rights also encourages children to work with their parents, teachers, and doctors to create an "Asthma Action Plan" for when trouble strikes.Asthma specialists will conduct the free asthma screenings at shopping malls and other accessible locations throughout the country.
During a screening, adults and children answer questions about any breathing problems. Participants also take a lung function test and meet with an allergist.
For a list of asthma screening sites or to take online versions of the questionnaires, visit www.acaai.org and click on "patient education." Information will appear at top right.