Current health care system policy for vulnerability reduction in the United States of America: a personal perspective.

Aim: To raise questions about how the United States of America, which spends 1.3 trillion dollars on health care, conducts cutting-edge biomedical research, has the most advanced medical technology, and trains a cadre of highly competent health professionals cares for the most vulnerable members of its population.

Methods: Relevant statistical data were extrapolated from the most current statistical sources and research reports, and assessed in terms of existing practices and policies.

Development of a survey of asthma knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions: the Chicago Community Asthma Survey. Chicago Asthma Surveillance Initiative Project Team.

Little is known about the general public's perception of the diagnosis of asthma and the impact of asthma on individuals, their families, and their communities. In addition, there appear to be no published survey instruments specifically designed to gain insights into how the general public perceives asthma. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of such an instrument, the Chicago Community Asthma Survey (CCAS)-32.