Download Asthma Alert in Scranton

Asthma Alert in Scranton
For the past three years, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has released a list of 100
major metropolitan areas that rank high in asthma. In 2005, Scranton ranked 10th; however, in 2006, the city
of Scranton ranked first in the nation, an alarming development.
The research revealed the importance for people to understand what triggers an asthma attack and where to
look for help to get the right specialist and treatment. In addition, research conducted by AAFA shows that
nearly half of all asthma sufferers do not have their asthma under control, and awareness about allergic
asthma is low.
Unfortunately, too many asthma patients believe that interruptions to their daily lives are a part of living with
this condition, and therefore do not seek proper treatment. It is important to understand that not only the
symptoms need to be treated - but the underlying cause.
Scranton also ranks high in above average use of “rescue medications” such as Albuterol or Proventil, which
indicates that asthma patients were not optimally managed. Using a rescue inhaler more than twice a week is
a red flag that asthma is not under control and an adjustment in, or the addition of, a controller medication is
necessary. Lack of patient knowledge about proper asthma management and acceptance of poor quality of
life can increase the likelihood of unscheduled doctor’s visits, emergency room visits and hospitalizations due
to asthma.
It is vital for you, as providers, to address the asthma status of your patient population and of our
communities.
Ask yourself the following questions:
 Are you addressing the number of times your asthma patients are using their rescue inhalers? Using
a rescue inhaler more than twice a week is a red flag that the asthma is not under control and an
adjustment in or the addition of a controller medication is necessary.
 Have you ordered PFT’s to confirm the diagnosis of asthma?
 Are you setting up a treatment plan for patients who have mild, moderate and persistent asthma
according to the recommendations of the NHLBI guidelines?
 Are your patients adhering to the treatment plan?
 If, after three months of asthma treatment, your patients’ asthma is not under control, are you
referring them to see a specialist - allergist or pulmonologist - for further evaluation?
 If and when your patient has had a recent ER visit or hospitalization for asthma, is he/she referred to
see a specialist?