The protective effect of community factors on childhood asthma

Background

Asthma burden in the US is not evenly distributed. Although asthma prevalence varies widely across urban neighborhoods, little attention has been paid to the community as a key contributor.

Objective

To determine the effect of positive socio-environmental community factors on childhood asthma prevalence in Chicago.

Methods

From 2003 to 2005, an asthma screening survey was conducted among children attending Chicago Public/Catholic schools from kindergarten through eighth grade. One hundred five schools participated, yielding a stratified representation of 4 race-income groups. Positive community factors, such as social capital, economic potential, and community amenities, were assessed by using the Metro Chicago Information Center's Community Vitality Index.

Results

Of the surveys returned, 45,177 (92%) were geocoded into 287 neighborhoods. Neighborhoods were divided into quartile groups by asthma prevalence (mean, 8%, 12%, 17%, 25%). Community vitality (54% vs 44%; P < .0001) and economic potential (64% vs 38%; P < .0001) were significantly higher in neighborhoods with low asthma prevalence. Neighborhood interaction (36% vs 73%; P < .0001) and stability (40% vs 53%; P < .0001) were significantly higher in neighborhoods with high asthma prevalence. Overall, positive factors explained 21% of asthma variation. Childhood asthma increased as the black population increased in a community (P < .0001). Accordingly, race/ethnicity was controlled. In black neighborhoods, these factors remained significantly higher in neighborhoods with low asthma prevalence. When considered alongside socio-demographic/individual characteristics, overall community vitality as well as social capital continued to contribute significantly to asthma variation.

Conclusion

Asthma prevalence in Chicago is strongly associated with socio-environmental factors thought to enrich a community. A deeper understanding of this impact may lend insight into interventions to reduce childhood asthma.

Key words: Asthma, prevalence, community, neighborhood, childhood, environment, social capital, disparity

Abbreviations used: CHIRAH, Chicago Initiative to Raise Asthma Health Equity, CPS, Chicago Public School, CVI, Community Vitality Index, MCIC, Metro Chicago Information Center, PHDCN, Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods