The Cherokee Nation is recruiting families for an asthma study.
Health Research Director Sohail Khan said of course they want kids to breathe better, but there’s a bigger reason for the study.
"Asthma is one of the leading causes of absence from school for kids," Khan said. "Unfortunately, the prevalence is slightly higher among Native Americans compared to the racial groups."
Khan said the Cherokee health care system sees 800 to 1,200 asthma cases a year. The yearlong study will teach kids and their families how deal with potential triggers.
"We're looking at dust mites, and some common allergens could be bacteria and other similar things that trigger asthma in kids," Khan said. "A lot of those surface contaminants, if you do proper cleaning, can be eliminated."
One group of families will receive cleaning supplies like a HEPA-filter vacuum at the beginning of the 12-month study. The other group will receive the supplies at the end.
Interested families can call 918-453-5363. Khan is working with the University of Tulsa on the study. KWGS is a service of TU.
