Fresno Bee: Doctor in Fresno asthma study tapped for California air board
John Balmes, a medical doctor and University of California professor involved in a Fresno asthma study, has been named to the governing board of the California Air Resources Board, the state's air-quality watchdog.
Balmes joined University of California at San Francisco in 1986, and has focused on respiratory health effects of air pollution for 18 years. He is working with Dr. Ira Tager of the University of California at Berkeley on the "Fresno Asthmatic Children's Environment Study," known as FACES.
The researchers are examining the connection between air pollution and asthma. About 250 asthmatic children, ages 6 to 11, have been tracked for several years in the study. Results are expected in the next year.
Fresno County has the highest childhood asthma rate in California -- one of every three children is afflicted.
Balmes, 57, is a Democrat who holds membership in the American Thoracic Society. He also is a longtime volunteer with the American Lung Association. Balmes replaces Dr. Henry Gong, who died in August.
There are 11 members on the Air Resources Board, including two from the San Joaquin Valley. Fresno County Supervisor Judy Case represents the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, and Dorene D'Adamo is from Stanislaus County. D'Adamo fills a seat designated for someone from the legal community.
The board is required to have a medical doctor appointed by the governor. Gov. Schwarzenegger last week named Balmes.
Balmes must be confirmed by the state Senate. Annual compensation is $39,332.