Abstract
Problem Identification
Asthma is a respiratory condition that disproportionately affects women across the United States. In Sacramento County, more women report having asthma than men and are more likely to be hospitalized or visit the emergency room due to asthma symptoms. These experiences significantly impact their quality of life, contributing to work absenteeism and reduced productivity. This project aims to reduce asthma-related disparities among women in Sacramento County.
Analysis
The Social-Ecological Model (SEM) is used to gain insight into the contributing factors of asthma among women aged 18 and older in Sacramento County. Determinants were identified at the individual, interpersonal, community, and societal levels. Key factors include frequent exposure to indoor and outdoor asthma triggers and worsening air quality due to pollution and climate change.
Intervention Proposal
The Sacramento Women’s Asthma Program (SWAP) is designed to reduce asthma impacts by minimizing exposure to triggers through health communication, education, and advocacy strategies. The intervention is delivered through a website, educational workshops, and community engagement efforts focused on improving air quality in the county.
Implementation and Evaluation
The program will be evaluated using both process and outcome measures. Outreach efforts will be assessed through workshop attendance, participant feedback, and website analytics. Program effectiveness will be evaluated using pre-and post-surveys, hospital records, and analysis of environmental policy impact.