A review of potential state and local policies to reduce asthma disparities.

Abstract

Although policies promoting asthma-friendly communities should reduce asthma disparities, not much is known about the status of policy implementation or effectiveness. We review the efforts of state and local agencies to identify and target asthma disparities for reduction, as evidenced by written laws and policy documents and use of funding. Policies targeting health care, homes, schools, and workplaces hold promise for creating asthma-friendly communities; however, the scope and reach of these activities must be increased to have statewide or national impact. In addition, there is a general lack of systematic review of evidence about the institutionalization of successful demonstration programs into policy.