The Reason for Sneezin' was created to kick off The Children's Allergy Awareness Program, a national campaign focusing on what is among the most pervasive and serious of childhood disorders. The program is being underwritten by the Schering Corporation.

Allergic disorders rank first among children's chronic diseases, and children's allergies account for nearly two million missed days of school annually. For the more than five million children who suffer with allergies, the physical and emotional consequences can be devastating.

Studies have shown that children's allergies can interfere with learning or lessen a child's interest in and ability to engage in social and physical activities; allergies have also been found to cause or contribute to asthma, ear infections, hearing impairment, facial and dental deformities, poor speech development, and emotional difficulties.

Many experts agree that treatment selection for children requires careful assessment of risk/benefit, and the impact of side effects on children's school performance and well-being.

The video follows the adventures of an animated character named AC, as he explains to a little girl-made miserable by her allergy symptoms-why she sneezes so much, how she can get relief, and what she and her mother can do about the sleepiness she experiences from the medication she takes for her condition. Her friends join in the discussion and learn about all different kinds of allergies.

The Reason for Sneezin' airs on the USA cable network Saturday, September 13, at 8:30 a.m. (EDT). (NAPSI)