Respiratory infection and Native American children: Understanding and addressing the disparity


Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

3229.0: Monday, December 12, 2005 - 2:30 PM

Abstract #110490

Julie Krueger and Abbey Mahady. Maternal and Child Health, GWU School of Public Health and Health Services, 1204 A North Stafford Street, Arlington, VA 22201, 703-615-9056, jkrueger@gwu.edu

Background: Native American children suffer acute and chronic respiratory infections at rates two to three times higher than other American children. Identified risk factors for chronic respiratory infection are considered to contribute to this ill effect. These include: household crowding, lack of adequate ventilation, lack of breast feeding, prematurity, and exposure to wood-burning stoves and environmental tobacco smoke. These exposures are inherently connected to low socioeconomic status and this relationship is relevant as the poverty rate for Native Americans is 26 percent, twice the national average.

Methods: Using demographic data and conducting a comprehensive literature review, this study answers the question of why such a disparity exists. The answer lies in an analysis of culture, history, economic development, and health care utilization.

Results: Respiratory illnesses are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among Native American children. Collective evidence has shown that wood-burning stoves and respiratory illness exposure, often due to household overcrowding, are independently associated with higher risk of respiratory infection. This is relevant given data that shows high levels of overcrowding among the target population. Indoor air concentrations of respirable particles are positively correlated with wood-burning stoves, a common source of fuel for Native Americans. These environmental justice concerns coupled with the long term negative effects of childhood respiratory illnesses necessitate an immediate multi-level, multi-component approach.

Conclusions: This study concludes with an assessment of strategies and programs being used to address these high rates of respiratory infection. Recommendations for community-based interventions and relevant cultural considerations are also introduced

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this session participants will be able to

•Identify key risk factors for respiratory infection and understand their relevance to Native Americans.
•Describe historical, economic, and cultural factors that contribute to the higher rates of respiratory illness in Native American children.
•Assess current and past efforts to address the disparity among Native American children.
•Recognize what cultural considerations need to be made in addressing this population.

Keywords: Native Americans, Children's Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

APHA Student Assembly Poster Session I

The 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition (December 10-14, 2005) of APHA