Public health
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Paediatric asthma hospital utilization varies by demographic factors and area socio-economic status.
Associations of emergency department (ED) visits and hospital admissions for asthma in children with demographics and area socio-economic status (SES) were examined to evaluate long-term trends and identify vulnerable populations. ⋯ Paediatric asthma hospitalizations and ED visit rates are declining in Orange County. However, certain groups are disproportionately affected, including those living in areas with low SES. This information will help in targeting intervention strategies to children at highest risk for severe asthma episodes.