Related Experiment Video

Updated: Feb 7, 2026

Collecting Hair Samples for Hair Cortisol Analysis in African Americans
06:01

Collecting Hair Samples for Hair Cortisol Analysis in African Americans

Published on: June 10, 2018

19.4K

Closing the gap: Understanding African American asthma knowledge and beliefs

Jade B Tam-Williams1, Bridgette L Jones1

  • 1Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri.

Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology : Official Publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology
|July 19, 2018
PubMed

Insights

African Americans have good general asthma knowledge but hold misconceptions about asthma medications. Addressing these beliefs is key to reducing asthma health disparities in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Health Disparities
  • Asthma Research

Background:

  • African American children experience disproportionately higher rates of asthma and related deaths compared to non-Hispanic white Americans.
  • Existing research suggests a potential link between knowledge deficits regarding asthma and treatment and observed health disparities.
  • Limited studies have investigated the baseline knowledge and beliefs of African Americans concerning asthma.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the knowledge and beliefs of African Americans regarding asthma symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and associated stigmas.
  • To explore these factors within a general community sample of African American adults.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized community-based participatory research (CBPR) techniques for study design and implementation.
  • Conducted a cross-sectional survey among African American adults in a Midwestern city.
  • Collected data on asthma knowledge and beliefs from 158 participants.

Main Results:

  • General asthma knowledge was found to be good, with high awareness of genetic links and common symptoms like nighttime cough.
  • Significant misconceptions were identified, including concerns about medication addiction (33%) and the safety of inhaled corticosteroids (60% unaware or believed them dangerous).

Conclusions:

  • The study provides crucial insights into the specific knowledge gaps and beliefs surrounding asthma within the African American community.
  • These findings can inform targeted interventions to address asthma-related health disparities and improve health outcomes.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Applications of RNA Interference in American Cockroach06:32

Applications of RNA Interference in American Cockroach

Published on: December 17, 2021

2.9K
Acupuncture in a Rat Model of Asthma07:14

Acupuncture in a Rat Model of Asthma

Published on: August 25, 2020

6.6K

Related Concept Videos

Gap Junctions01:37

Gap Junctions

Multicellular organisms employ a variety of ways for cells to communicate with each other. Gap junctions are specialized proteins that form pores between neighboring cells in animals, connecting the cytoplasm between the two, and allowing for the exchange of molecules and ions. They are found in a wide range of invertebrate and vertebrate species, mediate numerous functions including cell differentiation and development, and are associated with numerous human diseases, including cardiac and...
57.2K
Gap Junctions01:27

Gap Junctions

The cytoplasm of adjacent animal cells can exchange small molecules, ions, and secondary messengers via the communication channels which form the gap junctions. These junctions comprise a few hundred to thousands of molecular channels, each made of two halves, called the connexon hemichannel. A connexon is a hexamer of six transmembrane connexin proteins, which assemble radially, thus forming a pore or channel in the center. One connexon hemichannel docks with a corresponding connexon on the...
9.6K
Asthma-I: Introduction01:29

Asthma-I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
3.5K
Understanding the Self01:28

Understanding the Self

The self is a central aspect of human identity, encompassing an individual’s beliefs, emotions, perceptions, and experiences. It is a cognitive and psychological construct that enables individuals to interpret their traits and behaviors, influencing how they perceive themselves and interact with the world. While personality consists of stable and enduring characteristics, the self is shaped by self-perception and social experiences. This distinction highlights the dynamic nature of the...
309
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications01:24

Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications

Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma
3.4K
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management01:30

Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management

The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
3.2K