Study Offers Insight on Asthma

A multifaceted approach to controlling asthma can significantly reduce its symptoms, according to a study published on September 9, 2004 in the

New England Journal of Medicine. More than 900 inner-city children with allergenic asthma participated in the study, which compared the symptoms of a control group to those of a group in which each child received an individually tailored treatment plan. Strategies included using mattress and pillow covers that are impervious to allergens; air purifiers designed to reduce tobacco smoke, mold, and pet allergens; and pest control to eliminate cockroaches and other insects. After two years, the intervention group had required 14% fewer unscheduled hospital visits and 21% fewer missed school days.