Increasing the Knowledge Base of Asthmatics and Their Families Through Asthma Clubs Along the Southwest Border

Abstract

This study focused on behavior modification and enhancement of knowledge concerning home asthma management. The intervention focused on asthma awareness, severity assessment, medication use, and development of management plans while building a support group. The quasi-experimental design utilized various tools to evaluate knowledge, behavior modification, and self-care management. A 25% increase in knowledge and a 13% decrease in emergency department visits was identified over the 12-month period of the study.

Increasing Awareness of Asthma and Asthma Resources in Communities on the Southwest Border

“…The current study expands upon the previous work done by Alexander et al (2000) in the Southwest border area and evaluates the quality of the standardized educational components of the asthma awareness project. The goal was to increase the number of children served by this novel educational intervention.…”

“…An official English/Spanish translator reviewed materials for accuracy and readability. A questionnaire from the preceding study (Alexander, et al 2000) was used as a guideline to evaluate the asthma knowledge base for families participating in the project. A mailed survey form developed by project staff was used to gather information regarding family asthma management.…”

“…Participants. Selection of the Lower Valley school district population was based on data presented in the study by Alexander et al (2000). The Lower Valley had 17 elementary schools.…”

“…The study by Alexander et al (2000) found that incremental familyfocused health education empowers aggregates to attain management of asthma. Their research provided the impetus for further study.…”