A randomized controlled trial of a family-based community health worker delivered intervention for urban adolescents with uncontrolled asthma

Black adolescents with asthma are at elevated risk for health disparities. This study used mixed methods to test an evidence-based, family intervention adapted for home-based delivery by community health workers (CHWs). Fifty-nine families were randomly assigned to receive the adapted intervention, Reach for Control (RFC), or home-based case management. Paired t-tests showed adolescents in both groups had significant decreases in asthma-related emergency department visits. Families in RFC also had significant improvements in asthma management. Qualitative interviews suggested high satisfaction with CHW delivery, but treatment dose was low. Additional studies are needed to develop effective interventions for this population.