History of AAAAI
An Academy at the Forefront
The evolution of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) dates back to the early 1920s with the founding of two professional organizations: the Society for the Study of Asthma and Allied Conditions (on the East Coast) and the American Association for the Study of Allergy (on the West Coast).
In 1943, these two entities joined forces to become one stronger, integrated professional society called the American Academy of Allergy.
Although its name has changed, the Academy’s mission has remained the same: the advancement of the knowledge of allergy, asthma and immunology for optimal patient care.
Publishing Cutting-Edge Research
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, (JACI) the official publication of the AAAAI, took root in 1929 with the first edition of The Journal of Allergy. Eight decades later, this journal is the most cited journal in the allergy / immunology specialty.
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice (launched in January 2013) covers the spectrum of diseases in the allergy / immunology specialty, with an emphasis on practical clinical research and the latest recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.
Funding Research and Training
The AAAAI has long recognized the need for development of academic leaders to attract and train future allergist / immunologists. In 1948, the Academy offered its first funding for four fellows-in-training with an annual stipend of $3,000 each. To date, the AAAAI has funded awards totaling more than $5.19 million, much of this through the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Foundation Inc. (AAAAI Foundation) Formerly the ARTrustTM.
Presenting the Latest Advances
The Academy’s first Annual Meeting in 1944 was a two day event with four sessions and 23 presentations. Now more than 7,000 delegates gather annually from around the globe for hundreds of sessions presented throughout five days of learning and networking.
Meeting High Standards
Setting requirements and standardizations for training and practice, as well as certification in allergy and clinical immunology dates back to the 1930s. Today, the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI) establishes qualifications and examines physicians to become recognized specialists in allergy and immunology.
Recording History
The AAAAI is proud to host the largest allergic disease archive in the world dating back to 1923. Much of the archive is available to the public. For other document information, contact membership@aaaai.org.
Past Presidents