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Asthma prevalence and deprivation: a small area analysis
C Salmond1, P Crampton, S Hales
1Department of Public Health, Wellington School of Medicine, New Zealand.
Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health
|November 24, 1999
Summary
Adult asthma symptom prevalence is higher in deprived areas of New Zealand. This study found significantly increased rates linked to socioeconomic deprivation, suggesting a need to explore modifiable factors.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Asthma is a significant public health concern.
- Socioeconomic factors are known to influence health outcomes.
- Area-level deprivation may impact asthma prevalence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between adult asthma symptom prevalence and area-level deprivation in New Zealand.
- To determine if socioeconomic status influences asthma rates in adults.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from two complementary surveys conducted between 1991-1993 in New Zealand.
- Included a random sample of 25,042 adults aged 20-50 years.
- Measured area deprivation using the NZDep91 index.
Main Results:
- Asthma symptom prevalence was significantly higher in the most deprived areas compared to the least deprived.
- A linear increase in asthma prevalence was observed with increasing area deprivation (p < 0.001).
- Prevalence rates were also higher among Māori and Pacific Island populations.
Conclusions:
- The link between adult asthma and area deprivation is robust and unlikely due to bias or confounding.
- Further research is recommended to investigate modifiable factors associated with deprivation that may influence asthma.
- Findings highlight the importance of socioeconomic determinants in adult asthma management and prevention.