Evaluation of a Peer-led Asthma Self-management Group Intervention for Urban Adolescents

This paper describes the acceptability and generalizability of an evidenced-based peer-led asthma self-management program.

Adolescents with persistent asthma (n = 259, ages 12-17 years) from three urban cities participated in a one day camp led by either trained peer leaders (n = 35, ages 16-20 years; intervention group) or healthcare professionals (control group). Participants completed a camp evaluation form, and the peer leader quality survey.

Overall program evaluation showed high acceptability with average score of 4.5 (±0.87) out of 5 and no treatment group differences were found. Campers highly rated peer leaders' qualification, particularly trustworthiness (98%), knowledge (97%), and sense of humor (95%). Participants from low income families (annual income < $30,000) reported higher satisfaction with their camp experience being enjoyable compared to their counterparts from higher income families (X² = 4.23, p ≤ .04).

This study supports the acceptability and generalizability of a peer-led asthma self-management program across different urban community locations, seasons and venues.

Trained peers can be as effective as adult educators in teaching adolescents asthma self-management.