Breaking News regarding School Based Power BreathingTM Program

Deaths from Asthma in young people doubled in the last decade, despite the continual development of improved therapies.  Emergency room visits for this group is on the rise as well.  Why?  Teen non adherence is a key factor that is often driven by the adolescent's need to "fit in."  When treatment modalities clash with lifestyles, teen patients become non adherent.

AAFA's School Based Power BreathingTM Program is the only patient education program that acknowledges and addresses the teen's social and lifestyle concerns.

AAFA's School Based Power BreathingTM Program helps teens to successfully manage their asthma by teaching them to integrate healthy habits within their unique lifestyle.  Developed by a patient education specialist in conjunction with a multidisciplinary panel of health specialists and a teen advisory board, the School Based Power BreathingTM Program helps your teen live a healthier, active life.

School Based Power BreathingTM Program Structure

The School Based Power BreathingTM Program consists of either three, ninety minute sessions held after school or eight, thirty minute sessions held during your child's regular lunch period. Sessions include hands-on instruction, discussion and strategic thinking, video animation, and "Class Dismissed!"- a board game to test asthma knowledge. All students will receive a peak flow meter and spacer.

Basic Asthma Education

Pathophysiology
The role of inflammation
Identification and avoidance of triggers and irritants

Social and Emotional Issues of Asthma

Fitting in without jeopardizing health
Family dynamics
Realistic and reassuring coping mechanisms

Asthma Management

Myths and falsehoods
Medication overview
Peak Flow monitoring
Program review

Optional Topics

The Power BreathingTM  Program is supported with funds from the Environmental Protection Agency Region 10 and Prevention through cooperative agreement #U58/CCU320144.  AAFA Alaska is working with AAFA National, the Anchorage School District and the CDC to present the Power BreathingTM Program.

Schools currently participating in the Power BreathingTM Program:

Central Middle School Nurse Anne McCarron
Mirror Lake Middle School Nurse Cindy Hendel
Goldenview Middle School  Nurse Gail White
Gruening Middle School Nurse Barb Pennington
Begich Middle School  Nurse Laura Ownby
Lake Hood Elementary Nurse Kathy Bell
Northwood Elementary Nurse Carrie Berg
Trailside Elementary School  Nurse Lee Stark


If you would like to bring Power Breathing to your child's school, please talk to your school nurse and contact AAFA at 349-0637

Click here for a Permission Slip for Student Participation in AAFA's "Teens: Taking Control of Your Asthma" (79kb PDF)