The AAAAI/WAO Joint Congress 2025 in San Diego brought together leading experts in asthma and allergy management, highlighting innovations in patient care. Among the key discussions was the role of certified products in creating healthier indoor environments.
Leah McInerney, Client Success Manager for the Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program, spent time with Sanaz Eftekhari, Chief of Business Development and VP of Research at the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), to have a conversation on certification.
Empowering Consumers with Trusted Certification
For over 70 years, AAFA has been a leader in advocating for people with asthma and allergies, providing resources and guidance to help individuals manage their conditions. The Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program aligns with this mission by ensuring that products meet rigorous scientific testing standards.
Sanaz Eftekhari emphasized that trust is at the core of AAFA’s relationship with its community.
“One of the most important things we can do is make sure that people with asthma and allergies make informed decisions,” she shared. Certified products, backed by scientific validation, offer consumers confidence that they are making choices that support better indoor air quality.
The Role of Certified Products in Medical Conversations
While the AAAAI conference traditionally focuses on medical treatments, the importance of environmental factors in asthma and allergy management cannot be overlooked.
“With conditions like asthma and allergies, it’s hard to just focus on medication and treatment,” Sanaz noted. “These conditions are so impacted by the air quality around us, the environment around us.”
At the Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program booth, medical professionals and industry leaders saw firsthand how certified products contribute to healthier indoor spaces. Whether it’s vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, or bedding, these products help reduce exposure to allergens and irritants, complementing traditional medical treatments.
Looking to the Future: Expanding Awareness and Impact
The demand for indoor air quality solutions continues to grow as awareness increases.
“Unfortunately, asthma and allergies are getting worse,” Sanaz acknowledged. “But I’m really excited about this partnership because we’re seeing more awareness of air quality’s impact on health.”
With this growing awareness, more companies are seeking certification, ensuring their products meet strict scientific standards. Additionally, the launch of the program’s new certification mark makes it easier for consumers to identify trusted, scientifically tested products on store shelves.
A Unified Approach to Healthier Living
The conversation on certification between Leah McInerney and Sanaz Eftekhari at AAAAI 2025 reinforced the importance of a whole-home approach to asthma and allergy management. Certified products are not just an addition to medical treatments but a critical component of creating healthier indoor spaces for individuals managing these conditions.
As more companies recognize the importance of science-backed product claims, the Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program will continue to expand its impact, helping millions make informed choices for a healthier home.
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