Organization Looks to Spread Word About Airway Awareness

The American Association of Physiological Medicine and Dentistry (AAPMD) is an organization that was developed to create public awareness on the health issues of a compromised airway and to better treat patients by providing early care, rather than delayed treatment in life. 

The City of Chicago has adopted March 9 as AAPMD day because of the awareness the organization is dedicated to spreading, in addition to a professional symposium that will be taking place on March 9.  The organization will also be hosting a free public screening and awareness event on March 8 as part of National Sleep Apnea Awareness Week (March 3-9). 

During this event the medical professionals that comprise the AAPMD will be sharing airway information, screening people, and describing the physical facial characteristics that can be signs of a comprised airway function.

The free public screening event on March 8 will be held at Loyola University- Kasbeer Hall from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. It is the second event in a national series.  Loyola University is located at 25 E. Pearson St. in Chicago.“We are looking forward to spreading awareness on this often overlooked health issue,” said Dr. John Kelly, D.D.S., a local AAPMD Board member. 

The AAPMD organization was created to bring together physicians and dentists to work as a team in providing the best patient care. Studies indicate how children with compromised airways suffer from impaired health, breathing and brain developments. In adults, overall health is jeopardized and sleep disorders can develop. 
The consequences of untreated airway issues can be deadly, leading to strokes, heart attacks, diabetes and chronic inflammation.  Additionally, there is research showing a decreased performance in sports, work and academics. Furthermore, ticks resulting from Tourette Syndrome can be minimized by proper airway treatment.

“Airway problems are often overlooked by parents and healthcare practitioners. The AAPMD is particularly concerned with the issues that develop in children as a result of airway dysfunction.  We are honored that the City of Chicago recognizes the AAPMD and the severity of an untreated compromised airway,” Kelly said.

The organization is inviting the local media to the office of Dr. John Kelly, D.D.S., and a local AAPMD Board member. The office is located at 5350 West Devon Avenue in Chicago.