Learning, School Performance, and Children with Asthma

Abstract

Children with asthma may be at risk for decreased school functioning due to acute exacerbations, increased absenteeism, iatrogenic effects of their asthma medication, and the stress associated with a chronic illness. The purpose of this article is to critically review extant research pertaining to the school functioning of children with asthma, including studies of school attendance, school performance, the effects of asthma medications on learning and behavior, and the role of psychological variables in the development of functional impairments. There is not sufficient evidence to suggest that children with asthma are at significantly higher risk for poor school performance than children without asthma. Factors that may contribute to poor school performance among children with asthma include iatrogenic effects of oral steroids, poor medical management of the disease, and psychological problems. Recommendations for improving the school functioning of children with asthma are discussed.

A controlled trial of a school-based intervention to improve asthma management

“…This imposes significant restrictions on physical activities and can affect school attendance [2][3][4] and performance [5]. Night-time awakenings and poor disease control [6] result in reduced perceptions of self-esteem and increased behaviour problems [7][8][9]. Despite this, evidence suggests that teacher knowledge and training in asthma management is low, asthma records are incomplete, and effective child self-management of inhaler therapy is unsatisfactory [3,[10][11][12].…”

Supporting Students With Health Needs in Schools: An Overview of Selected Health Conditions

“…• (Aronson, 1995;Celano & Geller, 1993;Getch & Neuharth-Pritchett, 1999;Schwartz, 1999;Simeonsson et al, 1995) Increasing hospitalization and mortality rates are being reported among children with this condition ( da Costa, Rapoff, Lemanek, & Goldstein, 1997), with symptoms of varying severity. When individuals experience a severe attack, talking and breathing can become difficult (American Lung Association [ALA], 2002a; The Lung Association, n.d.).…”

“…Asthma attacks may have to be treated with rest, medications, reductions and restrictions in physical activities, and a trip to a doctor or hospital may be required (Aronson, 1995;Celano & Geller, 1993;Getch & Neuharth-Pritchett, 1999;Simeonsson et al, 1995). A variety of both long-term and short-term control medications are available for individuals with asthma, including inhaled, liquid, and oral medications.…”

“…A peak flow record chart can facilitate the tracking 'Of peak flow results across days to assist in ongoing treatment planning (see ALA, 2002b). SEPTEMBER 2002 Celano and Geller (1993) noted the functional relationship between childhood asthma, school absenteeism, and poor academic performance. Diette et al (2000) found that children with asthma symptoms associated with nocturnal awakenings had both decreased school attendance and academic performance.…”

Undiagnosed asthma in childhood

“…56 Even short absences from school can influence academic performance in later life. 57 Although teachers generally have accepting attitudes towards asthma, their knowledge about asthma is low and they are not adequately prepared to assist children with the management of asthma in the classroom.…”