OBJECTIVES: Indoor exposure to asthma triggers is an important cause of asthma exacerbations. The Seattle-King County Healthy Homes Project has collected information regarding indoor environmental conditions and caregiver knowledge, actions and resources related to asthma triggers. We are also implementing an intervention to empower low-income families to reduce trigger exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS, KNOWLEDGE AND RESOURCES: Data were obtained from 250 caretakers of children age 4-12 years with persistent asthma with household incomes < 200% of poverty. A smoker was present in 37.5% of homes. Mold was visible in 26.8%, water damage in 18.6% and damp conditions in 64.8% of households, while 60.4% of caregivers were unaware that excessive moisture can increase exposure to allergens. Dust-trapping reservoirs were common; 76.8% of children’s bedrooms had carpeting. Recent cockroach infestation was reported by 23.4% of caregivers while 57.1% were unaware of the association of roaches and asthma. Only 19.8% children had allergy-control mattress covers. INTERVENTION: Community health workers conducted an initial home environmental assessment, followed by nine visits in which they provided education and social support, encouragement of behavior changes, provision of materials to reduce exposures (bedding covers, vacuums, door mats, cleaning kits), and help in locating assistance for making structural improvements. CONCLUSIONS: Many low-income children with asthma in King County live in indoor environments which place them at substantial risk of ongoing exposure to asthma triggers. Substandard housing and lack of resources often underlie these exposures. The Healthy Homes Project offers an approach to reducing these exposures.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this presentation, participants will: 1) Describe the prevalence of indoor asthma triggers among an urban population. 2) Describe structural and behavioral factors influencing the presence of these factors. 3) Describe how community health workers can empower low-income parents of children with asthma to reduce exposure to these triggers
Keywords: Asthma, Indoor Environment
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Hoover Vacuum Company
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Hoover Vacuum Company has provided the project with vacuums at a reduced cost