Low Irritant Products Programme Good News

Low Irritant Products Programme Good News For People With Asthma

30 January 2007

The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation’s new Sensitive Choice programme will benefit people with asthma and allergies.

Sensitive Choice helps consumers identify primarily low-irritant and low allergy products and services. Over 12 percent of the population suffers from asthma and 40 percent from allergy. Sensitive Choice is similar to the Heart Foundation Tick Programme, which helps consumers make healthier food choices and sets nutrition standards for producers and manufacturers.

Hospitalisation rates for asthma have more than doubled in the past 30 years, and it is the most common cause of admission to hospital for children. In the years 1990-1998 (the latest year for which figures are available), there were between 118 and 197 deaths each year from asthma in New Zealand.

Asthma and Respiratory Foundation Executive Director Jane Patterson said the organisation was often contacted by people wanting to know how to reduce their symptoms.

“The Sensitive Choice programme allows us to recommend products that reduce asthma and allergy triggers and minimise reaction to existing allergies. It’s another way people can proactively manage their asthma.”

Sensitive choice product categories include heating, appliances, bedding and insulation. Every product accepted onto the programme is assessed by the Product Advisory Panel of the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation. Products carry the picture of a butterfly – a creature which flies best in fresh air.

Jane Patterson said that as well as reducing symptoms, the Asthma Foundation hoped the Sensitive Choice programme would encourage the production of products and services that benefit people with asthma and allergies.

“We hope to create a market demand that will see manufacturers and suppliers give priority to producing low irritant, low allergy products.”

The Sensitive Choice programme is a partnership between the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation of New Zealand and the National Asthma Council Australia. More information about the programme is available on the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation’s website – www.asthmanz.co.nz.

ENDS

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