Recorded presentation

Ann F. Yeamans, RN, MS¹, Barbara Sattler, RN DrPH FAAN², and Wendy Thompson, RN, BSN². (1) Environmental Health Education Center, University of Maryland School of Nursing, 655 West Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, 410-706-1849, afyann@comcast.net, (2) School of Nursing, University of Maryland, 655 W, Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21201

Asthma stakeholders recognize that environmental factors are believed to play a role in the development of asthma and in the initiation of asthma episodes. Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease directly affecting one out of every 20 persons and one out of every 10 children. It has significant health, education and economic impact.

Currently 17 states are addressing asthma with a statewide strategic planning process utilizing Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funding. Each state is considering its own unique needs and resources as it develops its own state action plan. These written but evolving documents are intended to serve as comprehensive frameworks for local and statewide action against asthma.

It can be confirmed by studying the completed plans that environmental factors are consistently identified and prioritized for action. A comparison of how environmental triggers are addressed in these plans can provide a broad base for considering how to incorporate environmental health objectives, strategies, and action steps into future and ongoing plans.

An illustration of one strong theme is awareness that partnerships at all levels are essential in order for actions to be effective. There is further awareness that some partnerships are already in place and that opportunities must be maximized to develop others.

This analysis can support state asthma plans as they guide focused environmental efforts to decrease the burden of asthma.

A review of the major environmental health themes found in the state plans will be presented showcasing unique opportunities for expanded environmental health awareness and actions.

Learning Objectives:

• List environmental factors considered as contributing to asthma
• Identify areas in which to focus environmental efforts
• Identify potential partners who can address state asthma plan objectives

Keywords: Asthma, Environmental Health

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.

Recorded presentation