AAP
AAP 2025: Routine asthma screening uncovers hidden cases in high-risk communities
Routine asthma screening during pediatric wellness visits can significantly improve detection in high-prevalence areas, according to findings presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 2025 National Conference & Exhibition. Using the Asthma Risk and Control Screen (ARCS), the MedStar Health Kids Medical Mobile Clinic evaluated 650 children aged 2 and older between 2021 and 2024. Among children without a prior asthma diagnosis, 35% had at least one risk factor, and 24% of those were subsequently diagnosed with asthma.
Common symptoms included nighttime cough, prior inhaler use, and exercise intolerance. The study also revealed that over half of children who screened positive lived in poor housing conditions—such as mold, pests, or water damage—highlighting the role of environmental triggers.
Researchers emphasized that early diagnosis and environmental assessment are key to reducing disparities and improving outcomes in pediatric asthma care. Physicians in high-risk communities may consider integrating similar screening protocols into routine practice.
Source:
(2025, September 26). American Academy of Pediatrics. Researchers Find Benefit in Routine Asthma Screening in Communities with High Asthma Prevalence [News release]. https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/aap/2025/researchers-find-benefit-in-routine-asthma-screening-in-communities-with-high-asthma-prevalence/