Alcon And The Asthma And Allergy Foundation Of America Team Up To Educate Patients

Main Category: Respiratory / Asthma
Also Included In: Allergy
Article Date: 29 Mar 2009 - 1:00 PDT

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Alcon (NYSE: ACL) and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) have joined forces to spread the word about seasonal allergies and treatment through media outlets today. As the spring allergy season comes into full force, it is important for allergy sufferers to understand their treatment options. Seasonal allergies affect about 40 to 50 million people in the United States alone and are one of the top causes of absenteeism from work and school.

"There are some new concepts and new treatments for the springtime problems people are already experiencing," said Bobby Lanier, M.D. and clinical professor at the University of North Texas Health Science Center. "Doctors have just completed their annual conference on allergy and are eager to join our friends at AAFA and communicate about these advances."

In media interviews today, Dr. Lanier and other allergy experts will speak about the causes of seasonal allergies and what people can do in their everyday lives to relieve symptoms. They will also discuss prescription treatment options including Alcon's PATADAY™ ophthalmic solution and PATANASE® nasal spray, two products that provide fast relief of allergies by going directly to where the symptoms occur. PATADAY™ solution is the only once-a-day medication indicated for the relief of itchy allergy eyes. PATANASE® nasal spray is steroid-free and the only prescription nasal spray on the market approved by the FDA to begin relieving symptoms in as fast as 30 minutes. For more information, visit http://www.pataday.com or http://www.patanase.com.

About Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

Seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as "hay fever," refers to an allergic complex of symptoms caused by sensitivity to seasonal pollens. Symptoms may include congestion, sneezing, itchy nose, runny nose, watery eyes and itchy eyes. Studies indicate that allergies affect an estimated 40 to 50 million people in the United States. Allergies are not only bothersome, but have been linked to a variety of common and serious chronic respiratory illnesses, such as sinusitis and asthma. In addition, allergy is one of the most common causes of absenteeism from both work and school, accounting for over $700 million in lost productivity and $3.5 billion in annual direct medical costs.

About Alcon

Alcon, Inc. is the world's leading eye care company, with sales of approximately $6.3 billion in 2008. Alcon, which has been dedicated to the ophthalmic industry for 60 years, researches, develops, manufactures and markets pharmaceuticals, surgical equipment and devices, contact lens care solutions and other vision care products that treat diseases, disorders and other conditions of the eye. Alcon's majority shareholder is Nestlé, S.A., the world's largest food company. For more information on Alcon, Inc., visit the Company's web site at http://www.alcon.com.

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Alcon

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