[Educational program for asthmatic children and teenagers and their parents]

Asthma is considered a health problem in Cuba. Its prevalence has increased and its morbidity and social-economic cost are important, although mortality and hospitalizations indicators have improved. Taking into consideration that the lack of information about this disease is considered a health hazard all over the world, an interactive educational program was prepared so that patients could learn how to handle their disease.

A two year, quasi-experimental intervention study was conducted with the participation of 50 children (29 boys and 21 girls from 8 to 15 years of age) and their parents. Healthcare, intake of reliever medications, pulmonary function, school attendance and the economic impact on family and on healthcare services were assessed.

Educational program application conducted to a statistical significant lower consumption of reliever medication (p < 0.003), and emergency ward visits (p < 0.001). The patients improved their force expiratory volume in one second (p 0.003). Healthcare and family costs dropped to 56% and 18.13%, respectively.

The intervention measures adopted had a positive effect and contributed to the reduction of morbidity and cost due to asthma.