Benefits of Routine Asthma Screening in High-Prevalence Communities

Recent research highlights the advantages of implementing universal asthma screening in communities with a high incidence of the condition. By screening all pediatric patients during routine wellness visits and investigating potential home environmental triggers, healthcare providers can identify more children at risk of asthma. A study conducted through the MedStar Health Kids Medical Mobile Clinic examined over 650 children aged two and older who had well-child visits between January 2021 and December 2024. The findings revealed that 35% of children without a prior asthma diagnosis exhibited at least one risk factor for asthma, and nearly a quarter of these children were subsequently diagnosed with asthma after further evaluation.

The screening process included questions about symptoms such as nighttime coughing, shortness of breath, previous inhaler use, and exercise intolerance. The study also uncovered a concerning prevalence of substandard housing conditions, with 41% of children experiencing poor housing quality, which escalated to 52% among those screened positive for asthma symptoms. As a response, the clinic has established partnerships to address environmental triggers—offering home visit services to remediate issues like mold, rodents, or pests, and advocating for safer housing through a medical-legal partnership.

Experts emphasize that early diagnosis and a holistic approach addressing environmental factors can significantly improve health outcomes for children with asthma. Many children with undiagnosed asthma may miss school, withdraw from activities, or experience disturbed sleep, impacting their overall well-being. The study's authors advocate for routine screening to better identify risks, especially in communities with a high prevalence of asthma, to facilitate timely intervention and reduce disparities.

This research was presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics 2025 National Conference & Exhibition in Denver, Colorado. The study demonstrates that early detection through comprehensive screening and environmental assessments can lead to better management and prevention of asthma's long-term effects in children.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-benefit-routine-asthma-screening-communities.html