Use case for the Analytic Solutions for Real-Time Biosurveillance: Models for Forecasting Asthma Exacerbations in Urban Environments consultancy held March 30-31, 2016 at the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC).
Problem Summary
Asthma exacerbation can be triggered by a number of environmental factors and respiratory viral infections. Asthma control plans are essential in preventing exacerbation. An early warning of increased atmospheric/environmental risk would enable public health agencies to alert asthmatic patients and providers. These alerts would also include prevention messaging and allow asthmatics to ensure that their plans are up to date. BPHC seeks analytic methods for forecasting conditions that are associated with asthma exacerbations. The forecast should consider the impact of respiratory infections (rhinovirus, influenza), temperature extremes, anomalous air quality measurements, and pollen. Available data sources are emergency department visit records, weather data, air quality data, and pollen counts.