Asthma is a major cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world. As a result, HealthPartners and public health professionals are interested in improving the diagnosis and treatment of asthma.

Data from the Center for Disease Control show an increase in the prevalence of asthma in the United States. From 1982 to 1992, the overall age-adjusted prevalence rate of self-reported asthma increased 42%, from 34.7 to 94.4 per 1000. In the age 5 to age 34 group, where the diagnosis of asthma is thought to be more accurate, the rate increased 52% from 34.6 to 52.6 per 1000.

Mortality and hospitalization rates continue to increase in the United States, particularly among minority populations. Subsequently, there is an increasing burden of uncontrolled symptoms affecting our patients’ lives and adding unnecessary costs to our health care system.