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AASA, NSBA release resource to help schools, families provide assistance to students with asthma
Submission from NSBA’s School Health Program

NSBA and the American Association of School Administrators have developed a publication to show what youth-serving organizations, families, and schools can do to help ensure that a child with asthma has a supportive, consistent, asthma-friendly environment wherever they are. Starting with six overarching guiding actions, the document provides specific steps each entity can take to better manage asthma among children.

More than 5 million U.S. children ages 5-17 have asthma. Collectively, these students miss nearly 13 million school days each year due to asthma. Asthma may limit a child’s ability to learn, sleep and play, require expensive treatment, and result in increased visits to the doctor and emergency room. Asthma is the third leading cause of hospitalization among children under 15. Asthma that goes undiagnosed or that is poorly controlled can be fatal. Asthma affects all ages, races, genders and socioeconomic levels. Asthma is more common in children, Hispanics, African Americans and those who live in poverty.

The guide focuses on creating asthma-friendly environments in schools, homes and communities. Youth-serving organizations, families and schools can work together to create asthma-friendly environments. A coordinated approach calls for communities to consistently:
(1) Use asthma action plans.
(2) Reduce asthma triggers.
(3) Manage medications and help children master the correct way to use them.
(4) Encourage opportunities for physical activity.
(5) Establish and maintain good communication.
(6) Provide and/or take advantage of asthma education.

To access the publication, click here: Asthma.