Asthma Foundation Expands Certification Program to be 'Friendly' to Mil...( Asthma & Allergy Friendly Certi...),Health

"Asthma & Allergy Friendly" Certification Now Available

WASHINGTON, Jan. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The fast-growing asthma friendly(R) consumer product Certification Program administered by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) in partnership with the international research organization, Allergy Standards Limited (ASL), has been expanded to include Certified asthma & allergy friendly(TM) products.

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There are 20 million people with asthma and 50 million with allergies in the U.S. Products that pass rigorous scientific testing and meet strict standards will be awarded the asthma & allergy friendly(TM) Certification Mark. AAFA expanded the "asthma friendly" certification mark to include "allergy" in order to communicate the benefits of the certification program to the millions of people who also have allergies since many of the same triggers can aggravate both conditions.

Certified asthma & allergy friendly(TM) products are scientifically tested in independent, accredited laboratories and must be found to meet or exceed the stringent standards adopted by AAFA. The standards are designed to ensure that products do not contain harmful chemicals and, under normal use and care, will not allow household allergens to accumulate at high levels. Each product is labeled to inform the consumer why it has been certified. Where applicable, products include specific detailed cleaning and care instructions for maintaining its low allergen state.

As the certification Program grows, consumers will have more suitable product choices, including plush toys, pillows, bedding, bedding encasements, vacuum cleaners, flooring and more. AAFA recently adopted a new Washing Machine Certification Standard developed by ASL.

Medical experts advise that reducing exposure to aller
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