Study of a Cost-Effective High-Capacity Air Filter to Reduce Air Pollution and Improve Asthma in Children Living in Low-Income Housing in New York City

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of HEPA air cleaners in reducing indoor air pollution and improving asthma symptoms in children aged 7 to 18 years living in low-income housing in East Harlem, New York City. This intervention study is conducted over a two-year period and aims to reduce airborne particulate matter exposure, airway inflammation, and asthma morbidity in this high-risk population. The trial is based on previous research showing the potential benefits of home air cleaners in similar communities. Participants will receive a single Austin Air Cleaner, a device with multiple filters including a medical grade HEPA filter, designed to reduce indoor air pollution. This single-arm study lasts one year, during which the air cleaner is placed in the childs home. The device continuously monitors particulate matter levels before and after installation. Participants serve as their own controls, with air quality and health outcomes compared before and after the intervention. Throughout the study, researchers will measure lung function and airway inflammation using pulmonary function tests and fractional exhaled nitric oxide FeNO tests at multiple time points before and after the air cleaner is turned on. Asthma symptoms, including wheezing attacks and emergency department visits, will be tracked monthly for a year. The study also includes questionnaires to assess symptom changes and incentives to encourage compliance with using the air cleaner. The total participation duration for each child is one year.

Cost Effective Air Filtration Intervention in Low-Income Housing to Reduce Asthma Morbidity