Catching Your Breath, Controlling Your Asthma This Summer

Asthma is a dangerous condition that requires careful medical management. Dr. Alan Jasper from St. Vincent Medical Center in downtown Los Angeles will lecture to the public on June 24, 2009.

Los Angeles (PRWEB) June 19, 2009 -- Just in time for the summer smoggy season, noted pulmonologist Alan C. Jasper, MD will give a lecture entitled "Catching Your Breath" at St. Vincent Medical Center on June 24. The doctor will discuss the chronic physiological condition of asthma and how it can be managed medically to maintain better lung function and capacity.

Approximately 34.1 million Americans have been diagnosed with asthma by a health professional during their lifetime, according to research sponsored by the American Lung Association. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 300 million people worldwide suffer from asthma, with 250,000 annual deaths attributed to the disease. Workplace conditions, such as exposure to fumes, gases or dust, are responsible for 11 percent of asthma cases worldwide, according to the WHO. And about 70 percent of asthmatics also have allergies.

Sudden atmospheric changes in weather, like a cold snap, or an allergic reaction can bring on a bout of asthma. Bad air quality also can trigger lung spasms. Whatever the causes, asthma should be taken seriously and managed with the help of a primary physician or pulmonology specialist.

The lecture is free and refreshments will be served. Parking will be validated. To reserve your seat at the lecture, please call (866) 478-8462. St. Vincent Medical Center, 2131 W. Third St., Los Angeles, CA 90057.

About St. Vincent Medical Center

Providing compassionate healthcare for those who need hope and healing has been the mission of St. Vincent Medical Center for more than 153 years. Located in downtown Los Angeles, St. Vincent is a world-renowned, 366-bed facility, offering comprehensive medical services, including multi-organ transplantation, joint replacement, general orthopaedics, cancer treatment, cardiovascular services, thoracic surgery, interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and world-renowned neurosurgery and neurotology services.

St. Vincent Medical Center is part of the Daughters of Charity Health System, a nonprofit healthcare system spanning the California coast.

(866) 478-8462

###