The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #52272

Melissa Valerio, MPH¹, Jian Jimmy Yu, PhD Candidate², Zhongxin M. Gong, MD³, Kathryn E. Patterson, MPH¹, and Noreen M. Clark, PhD³. (1) Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1420 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, 734-615-5271, mvalerio@umich.edu, (2) Biostatistics, University of Michigan, School of Public Health, 1420 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, (3) Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 109 S. Observatory Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029

Asthma health care costs continue to increase, totaling $12.7 (direct and indirect) billion annually (ALA, 2/02). Women are often neglected in asthma research and literature, yet suffer from more severe asthma, account for a significantly higher number of hospital discharges and a higher number of indirect cost losses (ALA, 2/02). Recent examinations of asthma in women have shown differences in the disease that may be attributable to sex or gender roles. The purpose of this study of 300 women 18 years old and older including 12% minorities is to examine the relationship of female specific problems and health care utilization in women with asthma. Using Poisson regression analysis (adjusting for age and income) we found that women who menstruate when compared to those who do not were more likely to report a higher number of hospitalizations (RR=4.955, p<0.0017) and unscheduled doctor/clinic visits (RR=2.513, p<0.0001). PMS symptoms were significantly associated with the number of hospitalizations reported in past 12 months (RR=1.611, p<0.0001), number of unscheduled and scheduled visits to the doctor/clinic (RR=1.088, p<0.0001, RR=1.005, p=0.0005), and the number of scheduled visits for follow-up to a doctor/clinic (RR=1.083, p<0.0001). Reported problems during sexual activity were also associated with health care use in the past 12 months. The Women Breathe Free program, based on self-regulation theory, addresses menstruation and other gender specific roles affecting the patient's observation, judgment, and reaction to asthma management. Program evaluation objectives and the relationship between asthma and additional gender specific activities will also be discussed.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, participants will be able to

• assess the relationship between women's asthma health care use and gender or sex roles, and
• recognize women's specific needs in asthma management.

Keywords: Asthma, Women

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.