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Asthma prevalence in 1973, 1988 and 2003
1Department of Epidemiology, Statistics and Public Health, Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK. burrml@cf.ac.uk
Thorax
|January 7, 2006
Summary
The prevalence of childhood asthma symptoms continued to rise between 1988 and 2003. However, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction declined, likely due to increased use of inhaled corticosteroids for asthma management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric respiratory health
- Epidemiology of asthma
- Public health surveillance
Background:
- Previous surveys in 1973 and 1988 indicated a rising trend in childhood asthma prevalence.
- The study aimed to determine if this increase continued beyond 1988.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess changes in asthma prevalence among 12-year-old children in South Wales since 1988.
- To evaluate trends in exercise-induced symptoms and treatment patterns.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey of 12-year-old children in South Wales was conducted in 2003.
- Utilized parentally completed questionnaires and exercise challenge tests, consistent with prior surveys.
- Bronchodilator use was restricted prior to testing.
Main Results:
- Reported wheeze and asthma prevalence continued to increase significantly between 1973, 1988, and 2003.
- Wheeze related to running also showed a consistent rise.
- Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction prevalence decreased by 2003, coinciding with a fourfold increase in inhaled corticosteroid use.
Conclusions:
- The upward trend in childhood asthma symptoms has persisted.
- The decline in exercise-induced bronchoconstriction suggests improved disease control through increased use of inhaled corticosteroids.
- Asthma prevalence may have peaked in the 1990s, warranting further investigation.
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