There are numerous research initiatives examining the relationships between allergies and asthma. Drug research is also ongoing and new drugs are being identified to assist patients in allergy and disease management. Ongoing research includes:

• “One airway” disease and the development of “total airway” specialists. Many people with non-allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis or allergic asthma see different specialists for treatment and prevention. Recent research has indicated that the relationship between the upper and lower airways is strong and similar to a continuum. The concept behind “total airway” specialists would reflect the relationship between the airways within the body and coordinate the professional knowledge, diagnostic methods and treatment of these related conditions.
  
  
• Drug research. Leukotriene modifiers are a relatively new class of drugs used in the treatment of asthma and some allergies. Leukotrienes are chemical compounds released in the body during inflammation, which cause the airways to narrow. Leukotriene modifiers block the production or action of leukotrienes. Leukotriene modifier research indicates that these drugs are effective in combination with inhaled corticosteroids for the treatment of mild to moderate asthma, particularly allergic asthma. Leukotriene modifiers may help to reduce patient reliance on high doses of inhaled corticosteroids. Leukotriene modifiers are taken once daily and the ease of administration makes the medication readily tolerated by patients.
  
  
• World Health Organization (WHO). WHO activities in asthma research include a number of international studies and initiatives. The United States is involved in all of these WHO studies and initiatives, including:
  
• • The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) is examining the relationship between air pollution and childhood asthma.
    
    
  • The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) is examining ways to cut the death and disability rates due to asthma through developing the best strategies for asthma management and prevention.
    
    
  • The Allergic Rhinitis and Impact on Asthma Initiative (ARIA) is aimed at developing a strategy to prevent bronchial asthma through the management of allergic rhinitis.