ASTHMA: RISK FACTORS, TRIGGERS, AND PREVENTION

Course overview

The underlying clinical characteristic of asthma—chronic airway inflammation of the tracheobronchial tree—is constant, although the disease itself is episodic and multifactorial, with exacerbations characterized by reversible bronchoconstriction, airway hyperresponsiveness, and airway edema. Asthma is caused by a complex interaction among genetic and environmental factors; its variable symptoms are the result of an acute respiratory response to triggering factors following individual sensitization. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of relevant research on asthma risk factors, triggers, and prevention to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.