If you have asthma, you are not alone. In the United States, asthma affects about 15 million people. Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and swelling of the airways, sensitivity to things that make swelling worse (dust, tobacco smoke, animal dander), and decreased airflow in the lungs. It can affect your activity level, productivity, rest, and attendance at work or school.

There is no cure for asthma, but you can learn to manage it so you can maintain a normal activity level and minimize the need for emergency treatment. We developed our AsthmaMatters Program to provide you with some of the tools you need to prevent chronic and troublesome symptoms and improve your well-being. Members who have asthma are encouraged to complete a health survey. Based on the results, you will be enrolled in the asthma program that is right for you.

Educational information is mailed to all AsthmaMatters participants throughout the year. Other aspects of our program help our members who have had difficulty controlling their asthma. These may include a peak flow meter and video, as well as a recommendation to attend an asthma education program.

  Our goals are to help you:

• Understand the causes or triggers of your asthma;
• Have normal or near-normal lung function;
• Participate in physical activity without having asthma symptoms;
• Decrease the frequency and severity of flare-ups;
• Promote restful sleep; and
• Increase your quality of life.