Internet Resources: Asthma
Submitted by Lauren Wojcik, Clinical Education Center Library, Seton Healthcare Family, Austin, TX; edited by Talicia Tarver
Asthma affects approximately 25 million people in the United States and more than 300 million people worldwide. Poorly controlled asthma can cause patients to miss school or work, while asthma attacks can result in hospitalization or even death. Health professionals focus on preventing asthma attacks and controlling symptoms through individualized treatment approaches. With proper education, access to medication, and avoidance of asthma triggers, patients can enjoy a better quality of life. The sites listed below provide general information and statistics for health consumers and health professionals.
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ): Topic: Asthma
Health professionals will find many useful resources on the AHRQ website, including evidenced-based asthma care guidelines, asthma-related quality measures, health information technology tools and resources, a return on investment calculator for policy makers and health care leaders, and asthma statistics.
American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology: Allergy and Asthma Drug Guide
This is a simple, straightforward guide to the medications most commonly used to treat asthma and allergies. It includes generic and brand names, dosages, links to manufacturers’ websites, and photos of medications.
American Lung Association: Asthma
The American Lung Association’s site contains information for consumers, including videos, web-based tutorials, and games. Health professionals can access information regarding research and grant opportunities, community-based education, and preparation for asthma educator certification.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Asthma
This site includes resources related to controlling asthma, as well as downloadable asthma action plans. Researchers may be interested in the CDC’s asthma statistics and information regarding the National Asthma Control Program.
KidsHealth: Asthma Center
This resource presents information on living with asthma that is available in English and Spanish. It includes a glossary of medical terms, printable tools, fact sheets for educators, and a free email newsletter. Kids and teens can access Asthma Center pages designed especially for them through links at the bottom of the web page.
MedlinePlus: Asthma
MedlinePlus contains consumer-focused information regarding asthma diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and control. Much of the information is available in multiple languages.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma (EPR-3)
Health professionals can access the current asthma guidelines through this site. Also available are printable handouts and asthma care templates for school staff and school nurses.