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IMMUNOLOGY

ASTHMA

ALLERGY

About Us

ABOUT US

We are the Allergy section of the NMA dedicated to improving health outcomes of African Americans & Minorities with Asthma & Allergic diseases 🩺

The NMA AAI Scientific Section is committed to improving the quality of patient care and health outcomes through professional and public education, advocacy and health and wellness policy promotion.

The NMA AAI Section will be the preferred professional content expert resource on matters related to improving health outcomes of African Americans and minorities with asthma and allergies.

NMA AAI Steering Committee

NMA AAI Steering Committee

Cheryl Walker-McGill, M.D., MBA

AAI Committee Chair

Healthcare Executive / Medical Regulation/Health Equity

Executive producer of the documentary Someone Else’s Shoes

Charlotte, North Carolina

Chanda Nicole Holsey, DrPH, MPH, AE-C

Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Scientific Section, Executive

Fleming Island, FL

Anne Maitland, M.D., PhD

AAI Past Committee Chair

Assistant Professor, Icahn School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Allergy & Clinical Immunology

Attending Physician, 3 Pillars Therapeutics

Consulting Physician, Clinical Paradigms, LLC

New York

Thomas A. Scott, M.D., FAAAAI, FACAAI

Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Scientific

Clinical Consultant, Asthma, Allergy & Immunology

Alabama Allergy & Asthma Centers

Birmingham, AL

Michael LeNoir, M.D., FAAP, FAAAAI

AAI Steering Committee Member

Associate Professor, University of California-San Francisco

Comprehensive Allergy Services

San Francisco, CA

Melody Carter, M.D.

AAI Steering Committee Member

Senior Research Physician

NIH/NIAID/Laboratory of Allergic Diseases

Bethesda, MD

Anne Staveren, M.D. FACAAI

AAI Steering Committee Member

Immediate Past President, Charles R. Drew Medical Society, Los Angeles

Secretary, Golden State Medical Society

Los Angeles, CA

Tracy Pitts, M.D.

AAI Steering Committee Member

Pediatric Allergist
Diplomate American Board of Pediatrics, FRCPC (Pediatrics, Allergy and Immunology)
Humber Hospital
Queen's University
Ontario, Canada

Nancy Joseph, D.O., FACAAI

Allergist/Immunologist, Consultant

Section Immediate Past Chair

AAI Steering Committee Member

Boston, MA

Cherie Y. Zachary, M.D., FAAAAI, FACAAI, FACP, FACDS

Chair, American College of Allergy & Immunology Diversity Task Force

Bloomington, Minnesota

Bridgette L. Jones, M.D., MS

AAI Steering Committee Member

Associate Professor of Pediatrics

University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine

Divisions of Allergy/Asthma/Immunology and Pediatric Clincal Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Innovation

Children’s Mercy

Kansas City, Kansas

50+

Million people in the United States have allergies according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

7.6%

of children under 18 years have food allergy

42.3%

of children with food allergies have experienced a severe reaction

$24.8

Billion annually is what childhood food allergies alone cost the United States

OUR SECTION
EXECUTIVE TEAM

Cheryl Walker-McGill, MD, MBA

Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Chair

Chanda Holsey, DrPH, MPH, AE-C

NMA Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Section Executive, 2009-present

Biography

Section Executive Team

National Medical Association

Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Section

Section Chairs (Past-Present)

Current Chair:

Cheryl Lynn Walker-McGill, M.D., MBA (2014 – 2015),

Charlotte, North Carolina

Anne Maitland, M.D., PhD.

(2023 – 2024),

New York, NY

Past Section Chairs

Nancy Joseph, D.O., FACAAI

(2022 – 2023),

New Orleans, LA

Thomas A. Scott, M.D., MMM, FACAAI, FAAAAI

(2021 – 2022),

Atlanta, GA

Tracy Pitt, M.D.

(2020 – 2021),

Virtual

Michael LeNoir, M.D., FAAP, FAAAAI

(2018 – 2020),

Honolulu, HI, Virtual

Lawrence Robinson, Jr. M.D., FACAAI, FAAAAI

(2017 – 2018),

Orlando, FL

Cherie Y. Zachary, M.D., FACAAI, FAAAAI

(2016 – 2017),

Philadelphia, PA

Michael B. Foggs, M.D., DFACAAI, FAAAAI, FCCP

(2015 – 2016),

Los Angeles, CA

Cheryl Lynn Walker-McGill, M.D., MBA (2014 – 2015),

Detroit, MI

Lynelle Granady, M.D.

(2013 – 2014),

Honolulu, Hawaii

Cheryl Lynn Walker-McGill, M.D., MBA

(2012 – 2013),

Toronto, Ontario Canada

Anne M. Staveren, M.D.

*(2011 – 2012),

New Orleans, LA

Michael Lenoir, M.D.

(2010 – 2011),

Washington, D.C.

Thomas A. Scott, M.D. (2009 – 2010, Orlando, FL

Kelvin Holloway, M.D., MBA

(2008 – 2009),

Las Vegas, NV

Floyd J. Malveaux, M.D., Ph.D.

Lawrence Robinson, M.D.

Section Administrator:

Chanda Nicole Holsey, DrPH, MPH, AE-C

Past Floyd Malveaux Award Recipients

2009 – Michael LeNoir, MD

2010 – Michael Foggs, MD

2011 – Kelvin Holloway, MD, MBA

2012 – Kevin U. Stephens. Jr.. MD. JD

2013 – Cheryl Walker-McGill, MD, MBA

2014 – Dr. Li

2015 – Lynelle C. Granady, MD

2016 – Cherie Zachary, MD

2017 – Melody Carter, MD

2018 – Esteban Burchard, MD

2019 – Anne Staveren, MD

2020 – Chanda Nicole Holsey, PhD, MPH

2021 – No recipient

2022 – No recipient

2023 – Anne Maitland, MD, PhD

2024 – Carla Davis, MD

Section Member Quotes

"Aspire to Inspire"

Nancy Joseph, DO, FACAAI

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Anne Maitland, MD, PhD

"Don't sit down and wait for the opportunities to come; you have to get up and make them." - Madame C. J. Walker

Chanda Nicole Holsey

Quotes

Do you know the signs of PI?

🩺 Black Patients may be more likely to go underdiagnosed with Primary Immunodeficiency due to racial and socioeconomic disparities in diagnosis and care.

💉 Early recognition is key.

• Review this key publication: Racial, Ethnic, and Socioeconomic Disparities in PI Diagnosis and Management
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34246439/

• Take the IDF Immune System Self-Assessment Tool
https://go.primaryimmune.org/immune-system?

• Explore 10 Warning Signs of PI
https://res.cloudinary.com/info4pi/image/upload/v1724180661/JMF_10_Signs_Illustrated_080724_v2_a9b4bb218e.pdf

Save the date:
Join us in Chicago, 2025 for the IDF-NMA Symposium: Immunology in Lung Disease.

#PIAwareness #HealthEquity #NMAAAI
#NMAInternalMedicine #IDF #PrimaryImmunodeficiency #NMA

April is Primary Immunodeficiency Awareness Month

This April, we are pleased to collaborate with the Immune Deficiency Foundation to enhance awareness of Primary Immunodeficiency in diverse communities. PI is a group of more than 550 chronic and rare conditions that affects the functionality of the immune system.

Through this partnership, we aim to
• Raise awareness of PI among physicians and healthcare professionals
• Promote timely diagnosis and evidence-based management
• Highlight the importance of access and equity in immunologic care

Follow along as we share weekly educational content and clinical insights throughout the month.

#PIAwareness #NMAAAI #NMAInternalMedicine #IDF #PrimaryImmunodeficiency #HealthEquity #InternalMedicine

On #WorldHealthDay, the NMA AAI Section joins the global call for "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures."

Allergies, asthma, and environmental factors can begin affecting children before birth. We advocate for better air quality, early screenings, and equitable care to protect maternal and infant respiratory health—especially in underserved communities.

Every baby deserves to take their first breath in a safe, healthy world.

#WorldHealthDay2025 #NMAAAI #MaternalHealth #InfantHealth #HealthyAirHealthyBabies

National Minority Health Month is here, spotlighting the theme: "Advancing Commitments to Eliminate Health Disparities."

The NMA AAI Section is dedicated to addressing chronic conditions like asthma and allergies that disproportionately affect communities of color.

We're committed to:

✅ Raising awareness
✅ Promoting equitable access to care
✅ Supporting Black allergists and immunologists in improving health outcomes

Together, let's breathe easier and work towards a future free from health disparities. 💪🏾

#NMAAAI #MinorityHealthMonth #AdvancingCommitments #AsthmaAwareness #AllergyAwareness #HealthEquity #BlackHealthMatters

This #NationalDoctorsDay, we salute the allergists and immunologists who are helping patients breathe easier, live fuller lives, and overcome chronic conditions with expert care and compassion. We celebrate your dedication to excellence and advocacy in allergy and asthma care. Breathe. Heal. Lead.

#NMAAAI #BlackDoctorsMatter #AsthmaCare #AllergyAwareness

The NMA Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAI) Section is proud to shout out Dr. Nancy Joseph, a dynamic member of the AAI Section, who was recently featured during the 2025 NMA National Colloquium on African American Health in Washington, D.C.

In her video interview with Dr. Jefferson, they spotlighted Dr. Joseph’s inspiring work and encouraged everyone to follow her journey on social media as she continues to be a voice for health equity in allergy, asthma, and immunology.

We’re excited to see her and other leaders at the upcoming NMA Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly this July in Chicago!

Stay connected. Stay inspired.
#NMAAAI #BlackHealthMatters #NMADocsInAction #NMA2025 #ChicagoBound

🌟 Women’s History Month Spotlight 🌟

The NMA Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAI) Section proudly celebrates Dr. Chanda Nicole Holsey, who was honored on March 8, 2025, by the Soul Food Festival, Inc. Women’s In History Celebration in Green Cove Springs, FL! 👏🏾💐

Dr. Holsey was recognized alongside 31 phenomenal women for her outstanding contributions to public health, her community, and the broader world of medicine. Her leadership and impact continue to inspire us all.

🎉 Congratulations, Dr. Holsey! Your brilliance and service shine brightly this Women’s History Month and beyond.
#WomensHistoryMonth #NMAAAI #BlackWomenLead #PublicHealthChampion #ChandaHolsey #HealthEquity #AAISection #BlackExcellence

This #nationalphysiciansweek, we proudly honor the allergists and immunologists of the NMA AAI Section—leaders in advancing care for asthma, allergies, and immune conditions in our communities. Your work improves lives. Your advocacy drives equity. Your dedication inspires us all. From research to representation, thank you for being the voice for those who need it most.

#NMAAAI #NationalPhysiciansWeek #BlackDoctorsMatter #HealthEquity #AllergyAsthmaCare

🔬 CHRONIC HIVES? A PROMISING NEW ORAL MEDICATION

A new drug, Remibrutinib, has shown significant success in treating severe chronic hives for patients who did not respond to Xolair.

💊 Key Findings:
✔️ Significant reduction in itching & hives as early as 12 weeks
✔️ Taken orally (unlike current injection-based treatments)
✔️ Not FDA-approved yet, but approval is expected soon!

This could be a game changer for chronic hives patients. Stay tuned!

#ChronicHives #Remibrutinib #AllergyTreatment #BlackHealth #NMAAAI #Dermatology #SkinHealth

👶🏽 EARLY SIGNS OF ECZEMA? NEW INFANT STUDY

A recent study found that infants as young as 1 month old who experience high trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) may be at higher risk for developing eczema later in life.

📢 Researchers, including Dr. J. Biagini, studied babies from diverse ethnic backgrounds (African American, Asian, and Caucasian). Their findings suggest that using an emollient (like ceramide-based creams) early may help reduce eczema severity.

📝 The study is not yet published, but this early insight could help shape infant skincare recommendations!

#Eczema #InfantHealth #TEWL #BlackDermatology #PediatricCare #NMAAAI #SkinCare

🍽️ FOOD ALLERGY UPDATE: Xolair Guidance from AAAAI

Xolair, approved last year to help reduce allergic reactions from accidental food exposure, has new recommendations for assessing its effectiveness.

This is NOT a medication that allows people to freely eat allergens! While effective for some (like those with peanut allergies), studies show 14% of patients saw no clinical benefit.

📌 New guidance at AAAAI 2025 suggests that patients should take Xolair for at least 4-6 months before undergoing a food challenge to test its efficacy.

#FoodAllergy #Xolair #AAAAI #PediatricAllergy #BlackHealthMatters #NMAAAI

🚨 BREAKING: A Needle-Free Option for Anaphylaxis!

The FDA has now approved "Neffy," the first non-needle epinephrine autoinjector, for pediatric patients under 4 years old (weighing 15-30 kg/33-66 lbs).

This expands access to a needle-free, easy-to-administer solution for managing anaphylaxis in young children! First approved in 2024 for ages 4+, this nasal spray epinephrine is a game changer for those with severe allergies.

🔗 Learn more here: https://bitl.to/4AP0

#Anaphylaxis #Neffy #FoodAllergy #Epinephrine #PediatricHealth #NMAAAI #BlackDoctors #HealthInnovation

📢 NMA AAI Section Meetup at #AAAAI2025! 🌟

The NMA Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAI) Section had a fantastic meetup at the AAAAI 2025 Conference! 🎉 It was a great opportunity to connect, collaborate, and continue our mission of advancing health equity in allergy, asthma, and immunology.

From insightful discussions to networking with colleagues, we’re committed to strengthening our impact and representation in the field. 💙💡

Special thanks to everyone who joined us—we look forward to growing together and making a difference!

#NMAAAI #AAAAI2025 #HealthEquity #Allergy #Asthma #Immunology #MedicalCommunity

💜 On this International Women’s Day, we recognize the incredible women in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology!

From pioneering research to improving patient care, women in our field are leading the charge in tackling health disparities and advancing innovation. Let’s continue to #AccelerateAction for better respiratory health and allergy care for all!

💬 Who is a woman in AAI that has inspired you? Drop her name in the comments!

#WomenInAAI #IWD2025 #HealthForAll #NMAStrong #NMAAAI #IWD

❤️ Happy Valentine’s Day from the NMA AAI Section! ❤️

This Valentine’s Day and Heart Month, let’s show love to the most important muscle in our body—our heart! Did you know managing conditions like asthma and allergies can positively impact your cardiovascular health? Staying proactive about your overall health is an act of love for yourself and your future.

💓 Stay active with exercises that support lung and heart health
💓 Avoid triggers to keep allergies and asthma in check
💓 Maintain regular health screenings

Tag someone who inspires you to stay healthy, and let’s spread love and wellness this Heart Month!

#ValentinesDay #HeartHealth #NMAAAI #LoveYourHealth

💐 Happy Galentine's Day from the NMA Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Section!

Today, we celebrate the beauty of sisterhood and the strength we find in each other. Female friendships are not just about sharing moments—they’re about empowering one another to overcome challenges, embrace wellness, and achieve greatness in all areas of life.

To all the amazing women in healthcare and beyond, we see you, we appreciate you, and we celebrate you today and every day. Let’s continue to uplift and inspire one another as we work toward healthier communities and brighter futures.

Tag your Galentines below and share the love! 💕

#GalentinesDay #SisterhoodInHealthcare #NMAFamily #EmpoweredWomenEmpowerWomen

🌟 Celebrating National Black Women Physicians’ Day 🌟

The NMA Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAI) Section proudly honors the incredible contributions of Black women physicians who are trailblazing in their fields, breaking barriers, and advocating for health equity in allergy, asthma, and immunology care.

On this day, we celebrate the resilience, expertise, and compassionate care that Black women physicians bring to patients and communities every day. Your dedication inspires the next generation and continues to transform healthcare.

Thank you for your leadership and for paving the way for future innovators and changemakers in medicine. 💜

#NationalBlackWomenPhysiciansDay #BlackWomenInMedicine #AAI #TrailblazersInHealthcare #HealthEquity #RepresentationMatters #NMA125 #BlackExcellence

🌟 Honoring Women Physicians in Allergy, Asthma & Immunology! 🌟

On National Women Physicians Day, the NMA Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAI) Section proudly celebrates the exceptional women physicians who are breaking barriers, advancing medical research, and providing compassionate care in allergy, asthma, and immunology.

Their dedication to improving health outcomes—especially in underserved communities—ensures that all patients receive equitable, high-quality care. We salute their leadership, resilience, and commitment to making a difference every day!

Tag a phenomenal woman physician you appreciate! 💙👩🏽‍⚕️

#NationalWomenPhysiciansDay #WomenInMedicine #AAILeaders #HealthEquity #NMADoctors

🌟 Black History Month: A Legacy of Leadership and Health Equity 🖤

This month, the NMA AAI Section honors the pioneers who shaped the path for Black professionals in allergy, asthma, and immunology. We are committed to building on their legacy by promoting equitable care for respiratory and allergic diseases in underserved communities.

Let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made and recommit ourselves to ensuring every patient has access to the care they need.

💬 Comment below with how you’re advancing health equity, and don’t forget to like and share this post!

#BlackHistoryMonth #NMAAAI #RespiratoryHealth #HealthEquityMatters

🌬️ Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Through Health Equity 🌟

Dr. King’s legacy inspires the NMA Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Section to advance equitable care for underserved communities. Let’s keep working toward a future where every breath is healthy and free.

💬 How are you inspired to continue Dr. King’s legacy? Share below!

#MLKDay #HealthEquity #BreatheFree #DreamBig

❄️ Cold Weather and Asthma: Protecting Your Lungs This Winter 🫁

Did you know that cold, dry air can be a major trigger for asthma attacks? As temperatures drop, it’s important for those living with asthma to take extra precautions to protect their respiratory health.

From dressing warmly to using a scarf to cover your nose and mouth, small steps can make a big difference in preventing asthma symptoms during the winter months. Learn how to manage your triggers and stay safe this season.

📖 Read more here: https://bitl.to/3irC or visit the link in our bio

💡 The NMA Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Section is here to provide resources and education for better respiratory health. Follow us for more tips and updates!

#AsthmaAwareness #WinterHealth #RespiratoryCare #NMAAAI #StaySafeStayWarm

🚨 Flu, COVID, RSV & Norovirus Cases on the Rise 🚨

The CDC reports 9.1 million cases of respiratory and viral illnesses this season, but experts caution the actual numbers may be even higher due to reporting delays.

🛑 These illnesses pose an even greater risk to the Black community, especially for those managing asthma and allergies. Chronic conditions can make symptoms worse and lead to serious complications.

🫁 Protect yourself and your loved ones:
✅ Get vaccinated – It’s not too late for flu and COVID vaccines.
✅ Know your triggers – Monitor allergies to avoid respiratory flare-ups.
✅ Stock up on essentials – Have medications, masks, and cleaning supplies handy.
✅ Seek care early – Don’t wait if you feel unwell; early treatment can save lives.

🖤 Together, we can prioritize health and protect our community. Share this post to spread awareness and take action today!

#NMAAAI #HealthEquity #AsthmaCare #FluSeason #COVID19 #RSV #Norovirus #ProtectOurCommunity

🌟 Congratulations to Dr. Anne Maitland! 🌟

The NMA Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAI) Section is thrilled to celebrate our immediate past Section Chair, Anne Maitland, MD, on her new role as Medical Director at the Medical University of South Carolina! 🎉

Dr. Maitland’s dedication to advancing health equity and improving care for patients is an inspiration to us all. Her leadership within the NMA AAI Section has been transformative, and we are excited to see her impact continue in this new chapter.

Please join us in wishing Dr. Maitland success as she embarks on this exciting journey! 🩺✨

#NMAAAI #HealthEquity #MedicalLeadership #Congratulations

💙✨ Breathe Easy in 2025! ✨💙

Happy New Year from the NMA Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Section! Here’s to a year of good health, innovation, and progress in improving respiratory and allergic care for all. 🌟

#HappyNewYear #BreatheEasy #NMAAAI #2025Goals #HealthForAll

🎄Happy Holidays from the NMA Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Section! 🎄

This season, let�’s breathe deeply, live fully, and enjoy every moment of joy. Cheers to a healthy and vibrant 2025! ✨

#HappyHolidays #BreatheEasy #NMAAAI #HealthForAll #SeasonOfJoy

With colder air and increased time indoors, winter can pose challenges for those managing asthma. Use a scarf or mask to warm the air before breathing it in and remember to keep indoor humidity balanced. Speak with your doctor about adjusting treatments so you can breathe easy this season!

#NMAAAI #WinterWellness #AsthmaCare #BreatheEasy

Love the scent of real pine trees and festive candles? Be aware that certain holiday decorations—like live Christmas trees or strong fragrances—can trigger allergies and asthma. Consider using fragrance-free options for a healthier home environment.

#NMAAAI #AllergySafeHolidays #AsthmaFriendlyHome

🧵 Importance of Allergy Awareness and Accountability

💔 We join in mourning the tragic loss of Dominique Brown, a beloved influencer and co-creator of #BlackGirlDisney, who passed away on December 5 due to a severe allergic reaction. Her death is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of allergy awareness and accountability in protecting those living with food allergies.

The NMA Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAI) Section emphasizes:
🌟 Education: Food allergies can be life-threatening. Everyone—individuals, event organizers, and food handlers—has a role to play in creating safe environments.

🌟 Advocacy: Dominique’s story highlights the need for clear communication about allergies and adherence to safety protocols in public and private spaces.

🌟 Representation: Dominique’s work in carving out space for Black women in the Disney community inspires us to ensure inclusive advocacy in health as well.

Let’s honor Dominique’s legacy by committing to change. If you’re hosting or attending events, remember:
✅ Ask about allergies.
✅ Respect dietary restrictions.
✅ Always have emergency action plans in place.

Together, we can prevent tragedies like this and support those living with allergies. Let’s work for a future where all spaces are safe spaces. 🫶🏾

#NMAAAI #AllergyAwareness #HealthEquity #accountabilitymatters

Photo credit: @nationalblackguide

🎓 Opportunities in Education Research!

Dr. Cheryl Walker-McGill, Chair of the NMA AAI Section, encourages members and the community to explore the Institute of Education Sciences’ Research Training Grant Programs (84.305B) for FY 2025.

These programs provide mentorship and training to build talent and diversity in education research careers. The four programs include:

🔹 Early Career Development & Mentoring Program
🔹 Pathways to the Education Sciences Training Program
🔹 Predoctoral Interdisciplinary Research Training
🔹 Methods Training for Education Researchers

🗓 Key Dates:

Letters of Intent: December 12, 2024
Application Deadline: March 7, 2025

Learn more and apply here: https://bitl.to/3KfI or visit our link in bio for details.

Let’s invest in the future of education research together! 💡

#MentorshipMatters #EducationResearch #CareerDevelopment #NMA #HealthEquity #AAI #Opportunities

Planning a holiday party? Label dishes clearly and avoid cross-contamination to keep your guests' food allergies safe!

#FoodAllergyFriendly #NMAAAI #Allergies #Food #Holidays

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ABOUT US

NMA AAI Steering Committee

50+

7.6%

42.3%

$24.8

OUR SECTION EXECUTIVE TEAM

Cheryl Walker-McGill, MD, MBA

Chanda Holsey, DrPH, MPH, AE-C

Past Floyd Malveaux Award Recipients

Section Member Quotes

​

Follow us on Instagram @nmaallergy

OUR SECTION
EXECUTIVE TEAM