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Temporal dynamics of emergency department and hospital admissions of pediatric asthmaticsAsthma is a chronic disease that can result in exacerbations leading to urgent care in emergency departments (EDs) and hospitals. We examined seasonal and temporal trends in pediatric asthma ED (1997-1999) and hospital (1986-1999) admission data so as to identify periods of increased risk of urgent care by age group, gender, and race. All pediatric ED and hospital admission data for Maryland residents occurring within the state of Maryland were evaluated. Distinct peaks in pediatric ED and hospital asthma admissions occurred each year during the winter-spring and autumn seasons. Although the number and timing of these peaks were consistent across age and racial groups, the magnitude of the peaks differed by age and race. The same number, timing, and relative magnitude of the major peaks in asthma admissions occurred statewide, implying that the variables affecting these seasonal patterns of acute asthma exacerbations occur statewide. Similar gross seasonal trends are observed worldwide. Although several environmental, infectious, and psychosocial factors have been linked with increases in asthma exacerbations among children, thus far they have not explained these seasonal patterns of admissions. The striking temporal patterns of pediatric asthma admissions within Maryland, as described here, provide valuable information in the search for causes.
Document ID
20040087451
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Kimes, Daniel
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt MD United States)
Levine, Elissa
Timmins, Sidey
Weiss, Sheila R.
Bollinger, Mary E.
Blaisdell, Carol
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2004
Publication Information
Publication: Environmental research
Volume: 94
Issue: 1
ISSN: 0013-9351
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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