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Childhood asthma in Thailand
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahindol University, Thailand.
Acta Paediatrica Japonica : Overseas Edition
|April 1, 1990
Summary
This study on Thai children with asthma found that boys were more affected and many experienced their first attack early. Favorable prognosis factors included male sex and milder symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Allergology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Asthma affects approximately 4% of Thai children.
- Boys are more frequently affected than girls.
- Fifty percent of patients experience their first asthma attack within the first two years of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics, clinical course, and prognosis of asthma in Thai children.
- To identify factors associated with asthma development and remission.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 2,000 Thai asthmatic children.
- Analysis of associated allergic diseases, family history, and skin test results.
- Pharmacokinetic studies of theophylline and long-term follow-up of 247 patients.
Main Results:
- Attacks commonly occurred during winter and the rainy season.
- 93.7% of cases had positive skin tests, with house dust being the most common allergen.
- Theophylline elimination half-life was longer in Thai children compared to Western subjects.
- Symptoms ceased by age 15 in 37.2% of patients.
Conclusions:
- Male sex, mild to moderate illness, and limited allergen sensitivity are favorable prognostic indicators for childhood asthma in Thailand.
- Understanding these factors can aid in managing and predicting asthma outcomes in this population.