Educational Interventions to Improve Asthma Outcomes in Children

554 JCOM October 2007 Vol. 14, No. 10 www.turner-white.com abstract • Objective: To present an overview of educational interventions to assist children with managing their asthma. • Methods: Review of exemplary, well-conducted studies and meta-analyses. • Results: Educational interventions for children in clinical settings have proven effective in achieving clinical outcomes. Education provided at home and focused on the indoor environment has reduced allergen levels, but fewer studies have assessed health outcomes. School programs have produced outcomes, including symptom reduction and improved school attendance and performance. Computer-based education for use at home has not shown strong results. Asthma coalitions and community partnerships have had an effect on institutional and public policy. Available data suggest that cost savings and benefits are associated with asthma education interventions. Questions remain about the effect of asthma education on very young children, women, and older adults. • Conclusion: Asthma educational interventions for children conducted in schools and clinical settings have demonstrated strong results. Education at home focusing on the environment is promising. Home-based interventions relying on electronic means of instruction require further study. Coalition and community partnerships can leverage change by affecting systems and policies.