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Asthma and allergic rhinitis in Quebec children
Benoît Lévesque1, Marc Rhainds, Pierre Ernst
1Direction régionale de santé publique de Quebec, Beauport, Quebec City. benoit.levesque@inspq.qc.ca
Canadian Respiratory Journal
|August 28, 2004
Summary
Childhood asthma and allergic rhinitis are prevalent in Quebec, impacting youth activities. Family history and allergies are key risk factors for asthma development in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Respiratory Health
- Epidemiology of Allergic Diseases
Background:
- The Health and Social Survey of Quebec Children and Youth provided data on asthma and allergic rhinitis prevalence.
- Focus on representative samples of children aged nine, 13, and 16 years.
Purpose of the Study:
- Determine asthma and allergic rhinitis prevalence in Quebec children.
- Identify key determinants of these respiratory conditions.
Main Methods:
- Recruited over 1100 children in three age groups (9, 13, 16).
- Utilized the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire for symptom documentation.
- Collected data on family income, smoking, urbanization, and indoor air quality.
Main Results:
- Asthma prevalence ranged from 14-15%; wheezing was 7-8%.
- Asthma significantly limited activities for younger children and was a major health concern.
- Rhinitis, rhinoconjunctivitis, and hay fever prevalence increased with age.
Conclusions:
- Childhood asthma is highly prevalent in Quebec, affecting youth health and activities.
- Family history of asthma and atopic predisposition are significant determinants.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for public health interventions.