President’s Message

Closing of National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month

As we come to the close of National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month, I am very happy to present to you the latest edition of Impact magazine, showcasing the remarkable strides our members are making in the fields of allergy and asthma research.

This issue is brimming with insightful articles that not only highlight the groundbreaking work being done in asthma and allergy research but also celebrate the contributions of our colleagues. From innovative treatments to pioneering studies, our community continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in allergy and asthma care.

Paul V. Williams, MD, FAAAAI

We are particularly excited to share the stories of three members: Jonathan Witonsky, MD, MAS, Kelly Colas, DO, PhD, the 2023-2024 Vaccines and Medications in Pregnancy Surveillance System (VAMPSS) FIT and Yoojin Chun, MS. As a pediatrician, allergist/immunologist and clinical investigator, Dr. Witonsky is focused on integrating clinical, social and genomic data to reduce the disparities in asthma and allergies among children. Dr. Colas’s work is focused on the unique intersections between women’s health and asthma, specifically when it comes to pregnancy. Ms. Chun is part of a research group focused on the impact increased air pollution brought about by climate change and extreme weather have on individuals with asthma.

Research and treatment of food allergy is another area where the AAAAI continues to lead the specialty. From identifying new allergens to exploring novel therapies, our members are at the forefront of improving the lives of those living with food allergies. People are still talking about the groundbreaking research that was presented at the 2024 AAAAI Annual Meeting by Robert A. Wood, MD, FAAAAI. Dr. Wood provides insight into that research in this issue. Several other studies from AAAAI members are also highlighted.

In keeping with our commitment to innovation, we explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and our allergy practices. As technology continues to evolve, it presents both challenges and opportunities for us. You’ll learn about the research one member is doing in AI, AI applications already in place and the future of AI in practice.

Finally, you’ll be inspired by the passion one member has for mentoring young physicians, a commitment that recently earned him the Outstanding Volunteer Clinical Teacher Award from the American College of Physicians (ACP).

I encourage you to dive into the pages of this magazine, absorb the knowledge shared and reflect on the incredible impact each of you is making in the lives of patients around the world. Your passion, dedication and expertise are what make the AAAAI community truly exceptional. Thank you for your continued support and for being part of our mission to advance the field of allergy and immunology.

Sincerely,

Paul V. Williams, MD, FAAAAI AAAAI President president@aaaai.org Find more inspiring stories of how AAAAI members are advancing our specialty and improving patient care in past issues of Impact on the Member Publications page of the AAAAI website. Do you have an inspiring story to offer for consideration, or know someone who does? Reach out to Impact editor, April Presnell.

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