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A decrease in the prevalence and improved control of allergic conditions in 13- to 15-yr-old Maltese children (ISAAC)
Stephen Montefort1, Pierre Ellul, Maxine Montefort
1Departments of Medicine and Health Information, Mater Dei Hospital and University of Malta, Malta. stevemonte@waldonet.net.mt
Summary
Childhood asthma prevalence remained stable in Malta between 1995 and 2002, with better asthma control observed. Allergic rhinitis and eczema prevalence decreased, but these conditions were more frequently diagnosed and better managed in schoolchildren.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) utilizes validated questionnaires to map global childhood allergies.
- Previous ISAAC studies in Malta (1995 and 2002) provide data to assess allergy trends in Maltese schoolchildren.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the prevalence and severity of childhood allergies in Maltese schoolchildren between 1995 (Phase 1) and 2002 (Phase 3).
- To investigate trends in asthma, allergic rhinitis, and eczema diagnoses and management.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study comparing data from 4184 children (13-15 years) in 1995 to 4139 children in 2002.
- Utilized validated ISAAC standardized questionnaires to assess symptoms and diagnoses of wheezing, asthma, rhinitis, and eczema.
Main Results:
- Wheezing prevalence remained static, but asthma diagnosis increased and asthma control improved significantly (fewer attacks, less disturbed sleep, fewer severe episodes).
- Rhinitis prevalence decreased, but children were more often diagnosed with hay fever, though symptoms interfered less with daily activities.
- Eczema prevalence decreased, with fewer children reporting itchy rashes, but diagnoses increased, and associated sleep disturbance lessened.
Conclusions:
- Asthma prevalence in Maltese schoolchildren has plateaued, with improved disease control observed between 1995 and 2002.
- Rhinitis and eczema prevalence declined, yet diagnostic accuracy and management of these allergic conditions improved among Maltese physicians.
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