What Is the Evidence That Environmental Remediation Programs Are Effective in Urban Children With Allergic Asthma? An Integrated Review

Abstract

Children with allergic asthma living in urban areas are exposed to heavy loads of allergens that adversely affect their health. The purpose of this inquiry was to determine if environmental remediation programs for urban exposures are effective. Research articles relevant to this topic were obtained by conducting a literature search of the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PubMed Plus, and Google Scholar databases. Search terms included combinations of asthma, environmental remediation, environmental triggers, environmental interventions, urban, and allergies. Out of 27 articles retrieved, 14 meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria were retained. When considered together, it appears that multiple-trigger environmental remediation programs are more effective than single- trigger programs in reducing asthma morbidity. To produce the best outcome, these programs should be tailored to a child’s specific sensitization and exposure. Asthma educators play a role in allergen remediation programs, beginning with educating their patients about environmental triggers and referring them, as needed, to more intensive remediation programs and resources.