Abstract

The increase in the prevalence, morbidity, and mortality of asthma in adolescents is a public health concern worldwide in both developed and developing countries. The personal, familial, and economic costs associated with this disease are high. The purpose of this article is to describe strategies to support asthma management that are developmentally appropriate and effective for teens. Such strategies can lay the foundation for continued positive asthma management into adulthood. Asthma education/management programs developed specifically for adolescents will be described. Recommendations to address barriers to adolescent asthma self-management will also be discussed.

Keywords: Asthma, adolescents, prevalence, management, school-based programs