If you or a member of your family have asthma or allergy, you are not alone. More than two million Australians have asthma, and 40% of the population is affected by allergy.

Even though asthma can't be cured, steps can be taken to minimise the triggers and reduce symptoms. With the help of your doctor and pharmacist you can become aware of your personal asthma and allergy trigger factors, and understand how to manage them using an asthma action plan.

Part of the process is being able to make informed decisions. At the National Asthma Council Australia, we know that people with asthma and allergy, as well as their carers, want good information to help them make lifestyle choices that improve their health and wellbeing.

Working for the future

Products accepted into our Sensitive Choice program are allowed to carry the Sensitive Choice blue butterfly logo on packaging and advertising. This symbol indicates a choice that will help promote better asthma and allergy care. A wide range of products is already on the Sensitive Choice register, and more are being accepted every year. Look out for the blue butterfly appearing in new locations.

All Sensitive Choice products must be approved by our Product Advisory Panel, which includes specialists in asthma, allergy, general practice, pharmacy and industrial chemistry. 

By putting the spotlight on products that are of interest to people with asthma and allergy, we wish to encourage more manufacturers to consider the health needs of Australians in their product development. Ultimately, we hope that Sensitive Choice will lead to the availability of even more low-irritant and lowallergen products for Australians.

As well as encouraging development of asthma and allergy aware products, we work to improve health outcomes. Our programs with GPs and other health professionals, including our national community education programs, help address the needs of people with asthma and allergy. The Sensitive Choice program also provides the National Asthma Council Australia, a not-for-profit organisation, with additional funding to further these important educational programs.

Living with Asthma and Allergy

This guide is supported by some of the products accepted into the Sensitive Choice program, with information on how they relate to asthma and allergy. There is useful information on managing your conditions, tips on how to avoid common asthma and allergy triggers, plus an asthma first aid chart.

We hope you find this guide helpful.

Professor John Wilson
Chairman
National Asthma Council Australia. 

Want to know more?

If you would like to view copies of our useful guides, find out more information on managing your conditions or get tips on how to avoid common asthma and allergy triggers, please go to Living with Asthma & Allergy.

Medical Disclaimer
Although all care has been taken, these publications are a general guide only and are not intended to be a substitute for individual medical advice or treatment. Any questions regarding a medical diagnosis or treatment should be directed to a medical practitioner. The National Asthma Council Australia expressly disclaims all responsibility (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or personal injury resulting from reliance on the information contained herein.

Content Updated 20 December 2009