Applying the Social Ecological Model to Creating Asthma-Friendly Schools in Louisiana.

BACKGROUND

In 2010, the Louisiana Asthma Management and Prevention Program (LAMP) implemented the Asthma-Friendly Schools Initiative in high-risk Louisiana populations. The social ecological model (SEM) was used as a framework for an asthma program implemented in 70 state K-12 public schools over 2 years.

METHODS

Activities included a needs assessment, identification of students with asthma, individualized asthma action plans (AAP), staff trainings, environmental quality improvement, and school system policy changes to address the asthma burden.

RESULTS

There were 522 new or existing asthma cases recognized. Asthma knowledge/awareness was measurably improved among school personnel. School indoor air quality was improved across all locations. School-level policies were adopted that improved AAP collection, compliance to bus-idling restrictions, and asthma medication self-carry.

CONCLUSIONS

The SEM framework can be used for school-based programs to address successfully and improve asthma-related issues from the individual through policy levels.