NCT07261423 · University of Pittsburgh
Pollution Intervention to Impact Kids Asthma Study
(PIKAS)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if adding Air Quality Index (AQI) information to asthma action plans works to improve asthma outcomes in children. It will also learn about children with asthma who report being more sensitive to outdoor air pollution.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if adding Air Quality Index (AQI) information to asthma action plans works to improve asthma outcomes in children. It will also learn about children with asthma who report being more sensitive to outdoor air pollution. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does adding either information about the EPA-AQI or commercial AQI improve asthma outcomes over time? * Are there changes in nasal gene expression in children with asthma who report they are more sensitive to outdoor air pollution? Researchers will compare EPA-AQI and the commercial-AQI groups to a control group to either AQI works to improve asthma. Participants will: * Receive standardized outdoor air pollution education and an asthma action plan * Provide nose and blood specimens * Have visits every 4 weeks for 48 weeks, 10 will be conducted by telephone calls and 3 visits will be in person.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- A healthcare provider diagnosis of persistent asthma (Steps 2-5 as defined by US guidelines) or intermittent asthma (Step 1) + at least one severe asthma exacerbation (defined by American Thoracic Society (ATS)/European Respiratory Society (ERS) criteria as requiring at least 3 days of systemic steroids or an Emergency Department/Urgent Care visit requiring systemic steroids) in the prior 12 months
- Home access to a smartphone or internet
- Primary residence in Allegheny County, PA
- One participant per household
- Age 8 -17 years
- Healthcare provider evaluation for asthma in the prior year
Exclusion criteria
- Diagnosis of other active chronic respiratory diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, etc.)
- Neuromuscular disorder
- Chronic disorder limiting independent ambulation (e.g., spastic quadriplegia, etc.)
- Cyanotic heart disease
- Plans to relocate from Allegheny County, PA in the next year (12 months)
- Use of intranasal or oral/intramuscular/intravenous corticosteroids 4 weeks prior to randomization
- Current participation in another asthma intervention trial
Where
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations