The current surge in the incidence of asthma is cause for great concern. It is of particular concern among minorities, including American Indians. Previously considered to be free of asthma, Indians now appear to have rates equal to, if not greater than, the general population. There have been few studies of asthma in Indian youths. Studies of the prevalence and clinical manifestations of asthma among Indian populations are especially important in order to elucidate its manifestations in this special population.
This epidemiological study investigates the prevalence of asthma and its risk factors among Oklahoma Indian youths. The specific aims of the research are: 1. To estimate the prevalence of asthma among Indian youths aged 9 to 22 years attending Riverside Indian School in Anadarko, Oklahoma; 2. To identify risk factors associated with asthma among this Indian population.
The first part of the study involves the recruitment of study participants by contact with school personnel, parents, and students. The second part of the study involves data collection from questionnaires completed by the students. The third part of the study is the physical examination, including height, weight, and lung function measurements.
The long-term goal is to develop culturally appropriate interventions and programs to ameliorate the effects of asthma.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the session, the participant will be able to: 1. Recognize the prevalence of asthma in this Indian boarding school, as well as compare this prevalence to the prevalence in the general population. 2. Identify risk factors associated with asthma in this specific population. 3. Develop a cultural appropriate program to ameliorate the effects of asthma
Keywords: Asthma, Youth
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.