I was fortunate to attend the Asia Pacific Association of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology (APAAACI) International Conference/China Society of Allergy (CSA) Annual Scientific Meeting Sept. 5 -7 in Beijing, China with College President-Elect Allen Meadows, MD, FACAAI. The meeting was also hosted by the Chinese Medical Association.
The meeting’s theme was Memorable History, Glorious Present and Splendid Future: Current to emerging therapies for better patient care. Focusing on the most recent advances and practical clinical aspects in allergy, asthma and clinical immunology, scientific sessions targeted clinicians and researchers across specialties working in allergy.
During the meeting, Dr. Meadows and I presented at the ACAAI Symposium on Sept. 7. We focused on pediatrics – my presentation was on pediatric asthma control, past, present and future and Dr. Meadows reviewed pediatric anaphylaxis. We also represented the ACAAI at a number of special events during the meeting honoring the 30th anniversary of the APAAACI.
It was especially memorable to have a pediatrician from Beijing stop us after our program, and we sat and reviewed three cases she had of severe asthma. She had provided copies of their pulmonary function tests, and how she had followed them for 15 years. She was so interested in learning more and improving her knowledge base and skills.
The global incidence of allergy and related diseases continues to grow, as does the complexity of the patients who suffer from them. APAAACI and CSA, like ACAAI, are the forefront of public engagement, research and training of allergists and allied health professionals who are critical to expanding the best available treatment and support for our patients.
International meetings are thrilling experiences, not only to visit new places, but also to be a part of sharing information for the benefit of patients worldwide. The collaboration provides a unique global perspective and strengthens our bonds with our international colleagues.
Todd Mahr, MD, FACAAI
College president
Allen Meadows, MD, FACAAI, Charlotte Meadows, Todd Mahr, MD, FACAAI and Francis Thien, MD, immediate past president of APAAACI
