Prevalence of bronchial asthma in rural Indian children: a cross sectional study from South India

Animesh Jain1, H Vinod Bhat, Das Acharya

  • 1Department of Community Medicine, Kasturba Medical College (Manipal University), Mangalore, 575 001, India. animesh_j@yahoo.com

Insights

The prevalence of childhood bronchial asthma is 10.3%, affecting more boys than girls. Early detection is crucial, particularly for children with a family history of asthma.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Epidemiology
  • Community Health

Background:

  • Bronchial asthma is a significant global health concern in children.
  • Understanding its prevalence and risk factors is vital for effective public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of bronchial asthma in children aged 6-15 years.
  • To investigate the socio-demographic factors associated with childhood asthma.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional, community-based study involving 559 children aged 6-15 years.
  • Interviews with parents utilizing the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire.

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of bronchial asthma was 10.3%.
  • Asthma prevalence was higher in boys (12.1%) compared to girls.
  • A significant inverse linear association was observed with increasing age and a positive association with a family history of asthma.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood bronchial asthma is highly prevalent, with a notable gender disparity.
  • Age and family history are significant correlates, highlighting the need for targeted screening.
  • Early detection and intervention are recommended, especially for high-risk children to reduce morbidity.
Abstract

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