Why National Jewish Health?
National Jewish Health pioneered asthma research and care since it first emerged as a public health threat in the 1950s. In 1960, our scientists developed the first clinically useful method of diagnosing asthma.
Our researchers discovered the IgE molecule, which is responsible for allergic reactions, a breakthrough that is the basis for many new treatments for asthma and allergies. We also helped to discover a drug targeting IgE that nearly eliminates seasonal increases in asthma attacks.
Many of the medications used today to treat asthma and allergies, including Advair®, Claritin®, Omalizumab (Xolair®), and newer biologics such as mepolizumab (Nucala), reslizumab (Cinqair) and dupilumab (Dupixent) were introduced to the marketplace as a direct result of clinical trial work done at National Jewish Health.
Since its inception in 2016, the National Jewish Health Cohen Family Asthma Institute has furthered the collaborations among the many divisions and departments of National Jewish Health making strides toward curing severe asthma. The Asthma Institute allows for one central location for the research and clinical trials work happening around National Jewish Health to be reported and tracked. We continue our work to improve asthma care, research and education. Our ultimate goal is to address the unmet needs of the millions of Americans who do not have their asthma under control.
The Cohen Family Asthma Institute Leadership
Director
Michael Wechsler, MD, MMSc
Associate Director
Ronina Covar, MD
