Friends of AAREA

Some 14-16% of children and 10-12% of adults¹ in your constituency are likely to suffer from asthma and an estimated 16% of adults over the age of 45 ² suffer from emphysema (COPD ³).

In addition to the aims in the accompanying literature, the Australian Asthma and Respiratory Educators Association (AAREA) is working to ensure that:

1. Patients and carers in the community have access to professional asthma and respiratory education as part of the medical management team.
2. Australia's 4th biggest killer, COPD with a morbidity and mortality rate that is rising, becomes recognised as a National Health Priority. For more information, click here (page 4 onwards)
3. People with COPD are diagnosed and treated early to reduce the burden of disease on the community.
4. The entrenched culture of tobacco smoking in various communities including CALD and ATSI is addressed with appropriate professional educational intervention.
5. National professional development and training programs are available for health professionals working in the field of respiratory disease

One of our aims is to support the Australian Lung Foundation and other organisations in seeking to have COPD recognised as a National Health Priority. This will enable funding for early diagnosis, management and education, in a similar way to the Government’s focus on other chronic diseases.

AAREA currently has a membership of 400 asthma and respiratory educators nationally. We need to extend access to this vital role to all populations throughout Australia. This will be reinforced by the workforce study currently under way.

With your support by becoming a friend of AAREA and Respiratory Health, we can update you with progress in respiratory health education and events in your community, where your support is invaluable in helping to improve health outcomes for your electorate.

To become a friend of AAREA, email us.