During the past decade, major scientific advances have occured in our understanding of asthma and associated diseases of the airways such as rhinitis and sinusitis. These developments have been accompanied by new, potent and safe medications and better drug delivery systems. As a result, most children with asthma and similar problems involving the nose, eyes and ears can now have their conditions completely controlled so that they no longer suffer from breathlessness, cough or wheeze. The end result is an improved quality of life for children who no longer need miss school, or recreational activities. Conquering Childhood Asthma will show most asthmatics how to live a healthier and happier life, hardly aware that they have asthma. We hope that parents will enjoy understanding and participating actively with their doctors in the care of their children.

Although the potential for immunomodulation has been recognized for many years there has been an explosion of data in this field with relevance especially to the treatment of chronic airway diseases. Most of the work in this field has been conducted by Japanese investigators but in the last decade there has been a body of work outside of Japan that supports and enhances these findings. The book covers basic research like effects on bacteria, anti-inflammatory and mucoregulatory effects, but also clinical results with up-to-date information for the use of such medications to potentially treat diseases as diverse as chronic airway diseases, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer. The volume is intended for pulmonary physicians, researchers in inflammation research, and pharmaceutical companies interested in the development of such agents. It provides background information for the clinician as well as in depth exploration of cutting edge science.