One-in-Seven of Native Hawaiian Adults and One-in-Five Native Hawaiian Children Have Asthma

Hawaii Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 2000 -2005 and Hawaii health survey (HHS) 1995 -2005 were used to estimate the prevalence of asthma. Both lifetime prevalence of asthma and current asthma prevalence were examined and compared to the state average. Hospital inpatient (1995 - 2005) and emergency department (2000 -2005) were also examined for health disparities and cost. The health disparities were examined by education level, geographic location, gender and other factors. Results: Native-Hawaiian adults and children have the highest rate of current asthma when compared with the other major ethnic groups; these findings are consistent with BRFSS and HHS. The prevalence of asthma in native Hawaiians seems to be on the increase in the past five years though not statistically at significant levels. Native Hawaiian children especially boys (<4 years old) are the most susceptible to be admitted the emergency room and hospital. On average 35% of all emergency department visits for asthma are native Hawaiian. Comprehensive intervention programs are needed to address this health disparity.