Advancing Allergy and Asthma Care for Veterans
By Courtney Ammons, Public Affairs Specialist
May marks National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the impact of these often-overlooked conditions and the care available to those affected.
At the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Dr. Charles Grogan II and his team in the Allergy & Immunology Clinic are working to ensure Veterans get the support they need to manage respiratory and allergic conditions—many of which are linked to exposures during military service.
Dr. Grogan treats a wide range of conditions, including allergic rhinitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, and asthma. “Many of our Veterans have complex respiratory issues due to occupational exposures,” he explained. “We often see overlapping conditions, such as asthma with features of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which require a more tailored and careful treatment plan.”
To pinpoint environmental triggers, the clinic uses a Zone 6 allergy panel, specifically designed to detect common allergens in Mississippi—like pollen, mold, dust mites, and pet dander. “The country is divided into six allergy zones, based on local vegetation and climate. Testing by zone helps us identify the most relevant allergens for our patients,” said Dr. Grogan.
Over the last 20 years, there’s been a notable increase in allergic conditions, which Dr. Grogan attributes in part to environmental shifts. “We’re seeing more autoimmune disease and allergic reactions, likely due to the ‘clean world hypothesis,’ which suggests that less exposure to certain microbes may make our immune systems more reactive,” he said.
Fortunately, treatment options have evolved. The clinic now offers biologics—a newer class of medications that use synthetic monoclonal antibodies to treat severe asthma. “These are game-changers for Veterans who haven’t responded well to traditional therapies,” Dr. Grogan noted.
While most mild allergies and asthma can be managed through primary care, Veterans in need of specialized treatment can request a referral to the Allergy & Immunology Clinic. “Our mission is simple,” said Dr. Grogan. “We want to help Veterans breathe easier, live better, and take back control over their health.”
For more information or to explore referral options, Veterans are encouraged to talk with their VA primary care provider about connecting with the Allergy & Immunology Clinic.