Indoor Air Pollution and Children With Asthma: An Intervention Trial

Inclusion Criteria: * 5-11 years of age, enrolled in grades K-5 and living in the recruitment area (CT, MA) * \[The screening questionnaire will determine asthma symptoms in the past 12 months (wheeze, persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness); and asthma medication use in the past 12 months (short-acting β2-agonists, long-acting β2-agonists, inhaled steroids, oral steroids, theophylline, cromones, and/or leukotriene inhibitors). Based on symptoms and medication, asthma severity will be categorized with a score adapted from the Global Initiative for Asthma guidelines (1=mild transient, 2=mild persistent, 3=moderate, 4=severe). Only children in categories 2 (mild persistent, 3 (moderate) or 4 (severe) will be eligible.\] * For potential subjects satisfying these inclusion criteria, a passive NO2 monitor will be sent to the home for placement in the main living space for one week. Families will be called after one week and instructed to cap and return the NO2 monitor in a pre-paid mailer. Families of children living in homes where the one-week integrated average NO2 concentration is ≥ 15 ppb will be invited to participate. We will permit the enrollment of more than one eligible child per family. Exclusion Criteria: * Using steroid medication for a condition other than asthma * Chronic respiratory condition other than asthma * Intention to move or relocate within 6 months