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Factors affecting asthma mortality in Scotland
T W Mackay1, C G Wathen, M F Sudlow
1Department of Medicine, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh.
Scottish Medical Journal
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Asthma mortality remained stable in Scotland from 1970-1988. A seasonal pattern in asthma deaths, peaking in August after pollen season, was observed, suggesting further research into contributing factors.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Asthma mortality rates in Scotland for ages 5-44 were examined.
- Hospital discharge rates for asthma increased annually during the study period.
- Most asthma deaths occurred outside of hospital settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in asthma mortality and hospitalizations in Scotland.
- To investigate potential seasonal variations and contributing factors to asthma deaths.
- To identify correlations between asthma mortality and environmental factors like pollen and pollution.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of asthma mortality data (1970-1988).
- Analysis of hospital discharge rates for asthma during the same period.
- Correlation analysis with seasonal data on pollen counts and atmospheric pollution.
Main Results:
- Asthma mortality remained stable at approximately 1.0 per 100,000 for males and females aged 5-44.
- Hospital discharge rates for asthma increased by approximately 4% annually.
- A seasonal variation in asthma deaths was noted, peaking in August, 4-6 weeks post-pollen peak.
- No clear link was found between monthly atmospheric pollution and asthma mortality variations.
Conclusions:
- Despite rising hospitalizations, asthma mortality remained stable in this age group.
- Seasonal variations, particularly linked to pollen exposure, may significantly influence asthma deaths.
- Further research is warranted to understand the drivers of seasonal asthma mortality.