[Comparison of clinical data of childhood asthma in different periods in Changsha]

Yun Li1, Tang Wang, Han Huang

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Hunan People's Hospital, Changsha, China. liyunpd@21.cn.com

Insights

Childhood asthma cases increased over 20 years, with more allergic rhinitis and better treatment outcomes using inhaled glucocorticoids. Asthmatic children are also more likely to attend follow-up appointments.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Allergy and Immunology
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Childhood asthma incidence is rising globally.
  • Understanding changes in clinical presentation and treatment efficacy is crucial for managing pediatric asthma.
  • A 20-year retrospective analysis provides insight into evolving asthma management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the changes in clinical features of childhood asthma over a two-decade period.
  • To compare treatment outcomes between different therapeutic approaches.
  • To assess trends in associated allergic conditions and patient compliance.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of medical data from 400 children with asthma, divided into two groups (1986-1988 and 2005-2006).
  • Comparison of clinical characteristics, including allergic rhinitis, exercise-induced asthma, drug allergy, and irritant-induced asthma.
  • Evaluation of treatment strategies and their efficacy in controlling asthma symptoms.

Main Results:

  • A significant increase in concomitant allergic rhinitis was observed (33.5% vs. 64.0%).
  • Higher incidence of exercise-induced asthma, drug allergy, and irritant-induced asthma in the later cohort.
  • Improved asthma control rates (37.9% vs. 83.0%) with inhaled glucocorticoid therapy compared to nonspecific immune therapy.

Conclusions:

  • The incidence of allergic comorbidities in childhood asthma has increased over 20 years.
  • Increased compliance with re-examinations and the efficacy of inhaled glucocorticosteroid therapy contribute to better asthma management.
  • Evolving treatment strategies have led to improved outcomes in pediatric asthma patients.
Abstract

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