Effects of AQI on Airway Epithelial Omics in Children with Asthma

Nasal epithelial cell RNA sequencing data were obtained from participants in the study AQI and Childhood Asthma: an Intervention Study (NCT: 04454125). In brief, this study was funded by an unrestricted grant from the American Thoracic Society with the goals of demonstrating feasibility and to test the hypothesis that addition of Air Quality Index (AQI) information to asthma action plans plus AQI education, compared to AQI education and a standard asthma action plan, reduces asthma exacerbations and improves asthma control and quality of life. For the pilot study 40 children, age stratified, ages 8 to 17 years were enrolled. Nasal epithelial cell collection was optional and could occur at up to two time points: at randomization and at exit, trial duration 6 months. This study was a small pilot, unblinded, parallel, randomized clinical intervention trial in children with asthma, randomized to receive either: (A) Air Quality Index (AQI) education + an asthma action plan (control) or (B) AQI education + an asthma action plan which contains AQI behavioral recommendations + demonstrated ability to navigate to AirNow either online or on smartphone app (intervention). Collection of nasal epithelial cells was optional for participants, collected at randomization and exit visits (where applicable). ]]>
Inclusion Criteria: Children with physician diagnosis of persistent asthma (mild, moderate, or severe)Home internet access and/or smartphone access and willingness to download AirNow app on phone; ages 8 - 17 yearsExclusion Criteria: Diagnosis of other respiratory disease (e.g., cystic fibrosis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, etc.); immunodeficiency- acquired or congenitalNeuromuscular diseaseDisability affecting ambulationCyanotic congenital heart diseaseOnly 1 child per household eligibleNo plans to leave Pittsburgh area in next 6 months. ]]>
Study recruitment was from July - October 2020, with study exit occurring from January- March 2021. ]]>