Asthma in the melting pot

The Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Children with Asthma

SzAsthma is the most common chronic disease of childhood. Disparities in asthma outcomes have led to international attention on the biologic, social, economic, and other factors that impact the health of children with asthma. Studies indicate that social determinants of health such as housing, neighborhood safety, and access to care significantly impact the health of children with asthma. However, screening for socioeconomic and environmental factors that impact asthma can be difficult to integrate into clinical practice. In addition, it is not yet clear which interventions to address these factors are most effective. This article will review recent studies of determinants and social determinants of health and propose a framework for identifying and addressing them in the care of children with asthma in a clinical setting.