Washington University physicians provide free asthma screening at Science Center

If you've regularly been coughing, wheezing or short of breath, you may want to get tested for asthma at the Saint Louis Science Center on Saturday, May 16, 2009. As part of a nationwide program, Washington University School of Medicine physicians will be at the Science Center to test lung function and answer questions about asthma. The screenings are free.

Sponsored by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and supported by an educational grant from AstraZeneca, the screening is part of the nationwide program to promote early detection and effective treatment of asthma. More than 73,500 adults and children have participated in the program since it was launched in 1997.

The screening event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. During the asthma screenings, people with breathing problems will be able to take a health assessment survey and a spirometer test, and receive information on whether they should seek a diagnosis. People previously diagnosed as asthmatic also will be able to assess whether their disease is under control. Educational materials will be available.

For more information, call 314-454-7376.