Asthma, Health and Society: A Public Health Perspective 2010th Edition

“Asthma, Health and Society is a unique and comprehensive view of asthma in society today…the concept of the “ecology” of asthma offers a significant leap forward. It reflects a more comprehensive understanding of the interaction between the patient and his or her family, community, and culture…(The volume) will be of significant interest to physicians who seek a better understanding of the larger picture and to other clinicians and policy makers.”

Katherine Gundling, MD, JAMA

Asthma, Health, and Society

A Public Health Perspective

Edited by Andrew Harver, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte

Harry Kotses, Ohio University, Athens

Asthma, Health, and Society is a comprehensive, current resource on this complex disease―its scope, human costs, and management―from a combined social ecology/public health perspective. This important and unique book proposes a concerted, multifaceted response and sets out the foundation for shaping this response, comprising individual and large-scale assessment, education, advocacy, and multiple forms of intervention. In clear, authoritative detail enhanced by figures, graphs, and references, contributors explain where universal standards need to be set, alliances need to be built (such as among agencies and institutions in a community), and what is currently known about:

• Pathophysiology, epidemiology, and social impact of asthma.

• Genetic and environmental factors; protective factors and risk markers.

• Effects in women, minorities, children, teens, and elders.

• Medical management, self-management, and home monitoring.

• Evidence-based interventions at the family, school, and community levels.

• Screening guidelines, compliance issues, and more.

In the absence of a cure or clear-cut causes, Asthma, Health, and Society offers the most robust compilation of practical knowledge on its subject to benefit the range of public health and asthma professionals, researchers, teachers, and students.