Translating a Proven Pediatric Healthy Homes Asthma Intervention to Adults

Abstract

Asthma is a serious public health concern, disproportionately affecting urban, minority populations. Chicago’s West and Southwest sides are among the most burdened by asthma and environmental conditions that exacerbate asthma. Home-based, community health worker (CHW)–led interventions have repeatedly demonstrated effectiveness in addressing pediatric asthma. However, evidence of such interventions among adults is limited. Helping Chicago’s Westside Adults Breathe and Thrive is a longitudinal cohort study that assesses the effectiveness of a CHW-led asthma and healthy homes intervention for adults. One of the first of its kind, the program aims to improve asthma control and quality of life among adults with poorly controlled asthma. This article provides a framework for implementing the intervention from start to finish. CHWs make five or six home visits over the course of 12 months, providing comprehensive and individualized asthma education to study participants. They work closely with participants to conduct home environmental assessments, collaboratively developing techniques to eliminate or avoid asthma triggers. They also assist with smoking cessation, comorbidities, and health system navigation. Between December 1, 2013, and August 31, 2015, 202 participants enrolled in the program. This article reports on successes, challenges, and recommendations from the program’s first 21 months of operation.