The most important point that must be made about lung disease is that it is, in great part, avoidable. How can we prevent lung disease, promote lung health, and improve the quality of life for those who have lung disease? The American Lung Association of Maryland has a variety of educational pieces on the most common aspects of lung disease and lung health. The Lung Association has a brand new publication, LUNGhealth Magazine, which is available to the public at no cost.  For more information on these topics, to order a brochure or LUNGhealth Magazine, or to receive a list of all available materials, email us at literature@marylandlung.org or call 410.560.2120 Ext. 239. Some of the most frequently requested pieces are:

:: Asthma
Asthma affects more than 200,000 Marylanders including 87,000 children. Asthma At My Age? Helps newly-diagnosed older asthmatics understand asthma, its causes, and treatment plans. Discusses medications to avoid, preventive measures, and the special problems older asthmatics may face.

The Asthma Handbook
One of ALA's most requested publications. Includes vital information on identifying "triggers," including allergens, dust, infections – and how to manage or avoid them. This upbeat handbook that helps adults better understand their disease is chock-full of information ranging from a discussion of different types of asthma medications to how episodes can be controlled.

Family Guide to Asthma and Allergies This book shows you how to manage asthma and allergies and lead an active, healthy life. It provides information on triggers, treatment options, and provides proven ways to allergy- and asthma-proof your home.

Let's Talk About Asthma - A Guide for Teens An asthma workbook specifically for teenagers. Offers clear facts about the disease, how to identify personal "triggers," how to handle asthma episodes, and how to properly take their medications.

:: Smoking
Tobacco is the single most preventable cause of illness and death in the United States.

Becoming A Successful Quitter
This easy-to-read booklet guides readers on developing their "quit plan," successful coping strategies, stress reduction techniques, and how to prevent relapses.

Freedom From Smoking
This glossy full color self-help manual can lead the way for people who want to quit smoking. Offers valuable techniques for removing roadblocks, getting through their "quit" day, and provides suggestions for staying off cigarettes.

Questions and Answers About Smoking and Health
Some of the most commonly asked questions about smoking and the effects it has on one's health are answered in this concise brochure.

:: COPD/Lung Disease
More than 600,000 Marylanders have lung disease.

Around the Clock with COPD
A practical guide with numerous non-medical hints and suggestions to ease living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Tips on pacing, dressing, respiratory therapy, oxygen, lifting, and traveling.
 
Help Yourself to Better Breathing
Designed specifically for those with COPD – chronic bronchitis, emphysema and/or asthma. Provides valuable information on medications and breathing exercises, and how their disease can be managed on a daily basis.

Understanding Lung Medications
Designed for people with asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Provides essential information and detailed instructions on how to use metered dose inhalers, spacers, peak flow meters, nebulizers, and compressors.

:: Facts About
Easy-to-read brochures on many topics including:

• Air Pollution in Your Home
• Asthma
• Controlling Cockroaches in Your Home and Asthma
• Emphysema
• Exercise and Lung Health
• Home Control of Allergies and Asthma
• How to Keep Your Lungs Healthy
• Influenza
• Lung Cancer
• Peak Flow Meters
• Pneumonia
• Radon
• Secondhand Smoke
• Sleep Apnea
• Smoking and Pregnancy
• TB and Your Health
• Tobacco Use
• What You Can Do About Air Pollution

Resources
The Christmas Seals website www.christmasseals.org
Citibank credit card site  www.thealacard.com
Associated Golf Associations  www.TheGolfParks.com