National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care, North Thame

Ahenda, L

Allder, J

Cameron-Mowat, L

Casement, T

Grigg, J

Harris, K

James, J

American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine

Queen Mary Research Online

Title:Development of an asthma awareness film in London secondary schoolsAuthors:Katherine Harris*, Lizette Ahenda, Luke Cameron-Mowat, Tony Casement, Justin Alder, Jeremy James, Jonathan GriggRationale:Data from a schools-based questionnaire with asthmatic students in London schools, found that 45.7% of teenagers had sub-optimal asthma control, and many did not take their reliever inhalers when they needed them as they felt uncomfortable using their inhaler at school. Focus groups confirmed that many students felt embarrassed using their inhalers at school as many felt that teachers and their peers did not understand why the inhaler was needed, and were concerned it was seen as an excuse. Methods:An asthma awareness film was developed as part of a schools-based intervention, aimed at improving adherence to medication among teenagers. Focus groups were conducted with students at two London secondary schools to discuss the film content and development. The film was made at a London skate park, using members of the Parkour free running group in London. The film was subsequently shown to asthmatic and non-asthmatic students at London secondary schools.  Results:Eighteen students with asthma participated in the film development. Participants felt that the film should show how asthma can affect teenagers during exercise, both physically and emotionally, and how inhalers can help physical symptoms. Students felt that it was important for the film to be made from the perspective of the character with asthma, to demonstrate a sense of loneliness, and embarrassment about using inhalers in front of people, and overcoming these feelings. The film was shown to 40 students at three East London secondary schools; 52.5% of participants were asthmatic. 95% of participants found the film interesting and 87.5% thought it was suitable for people with and without asthma. Of those without asthma, 95% found the film informative, compared to 91% of those with asthma. 77% of those with asthma, and 84% of those without asthma, learned something new. 85% agreed that the film is useful for people who do not have asthma. Conclusions:An asthma film is a useful tool for raising awareness of asthma in schools. It is effective in teaching both asthmatic and non-asthmatic teenagers, and feedback from students suggests that it should be shown as part of a wider schools-based intervention. Funding Source: National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care, North Thames. References:Film link: https://vimeo.com/187584618Password: jump

Development Of An Asthma Awareness Film In London Secondary Schools

Development Of An Asthma Awareness Film In London Secondary Schools

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