LAUSR

Purpose: This paper describes the acceptability and generalizability of an evidenced‐based peer‐led asthma self‐management program. Design and methods: Adolescents with persistent asthma (n = 259, ages 12–17 years) from three urban cities participated in a one day camp led by either trained peer leaders (n = 35, ages 16–20 years; intervention group) or healthcare professionals (control group). Participants completed a camp evaluation form, and the peer leader quality survey. Results: Overall program evaluation showed high acceptability with average score of 4.5 (±0.87) out of 5 and no treatment group differences were found. Campers highly rated peer leaders' qualification, particularly trustworthiness (98%), knowledge (97%), and sense of humor (95%). Participants from low income families (annual income < $30,000) reported higher satisfaction with their camp experience being enjoyable compared to their counterparts from higher income families (X2 = 4.23, p ≤ .04). Conclusions: This study supports the acceptability and generalizability of a peer‐led asthma self‐management program across different urban community locations, seasons and venues. Practice Implications: Trained peers can be as effective as adult educators in teaching adolescents asthma self‐management. HighlightsUrban adolescents with persistent asthma highly rated participating in a one‐day peer‐led self‐management intervention.Properly trained peer leaders successfully delivered self‐management training as an alternative to adult health educators.Sincerity and disposition over sociodemographic match with learners are essential attributes in selecting peer educators.This study demonstrates the adaptability of a peer‐led asthma self‐management program to community or clinic venues.Study results indicate the generalizability of the asthma self‐management program across diverse urban community locations