Abstract
Rationale To examine the effect of an environmental control intervention on indoor allergen reduction behaviors in the homes of atopic, asthmatic children living in the inner city. Methods Elementary school-aged, African-American children with asthma (n=100) were randomized into an educational allergen control intervention study. Before randomization, families of all the children were skin tested and given written allergen control information. In addition, the treatment group received 3 in-home allergen control educational sessions, free encasements and a HEPA air cleaner. Home visits were conducted at baseline to assess the number of potential changes in the homes (e.g., having bedroom carpeting at baseline) and at 6 months to assess the number of actual changes made (removing carpeting). Since recommendations vary by allergen, the behaviors were evaluated based on sensitivity. Some behavioral changes included removal of carpets, pets, stuffed toys, and fabric furniture, cleaned stove, and fixed leaks. Two groups were compared using a Pearson's chi-square and odds ratio. Results Of the 100 participants, 29 had a positive skin test to dust mite, 23 to cat or dog, and 41 to cockroach. Analyses of behavioral changes showed families in the treatment group made significantly more allergen control changes in their homes at 6 months than the control group: dust mite (p<0.001, OR=6.81), pet (p<0.001, OR=10.43) and cockroach (p<0.001, OR=3.71). Conclusions In-home educational interventions are an effective strategy to promote behavioral changes toward indoor allergen reduction in inner city families. Provision of allergen control supplies and in-home assistance enhances compliance.
Published Version
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