Asthma and its related socioeconomic factors: The Shiraz Adult Respiratory Disease Study 2015

This study aimed to explore the association between the prevalence of asthma and the socioeconomic factors using data from the Shiraz Adult Respiratory Disease Study, 2015(SARDS).

The SARDS was conducted from June to October 2015 among adult subjects of the general population of Shiraz, Iran. Current asthma was defined as the presence of at least 1 of the following factors in the preceding 12 months: (1) being awakened by an attack of shortness of breath, coughing, or chest tightness without any identifiable cause; (2) having an asthma attack; (3) currently using medication for asthma; or (4) having wheezing or whistling in the chest not associated with a cold or the flu. Information on individual socioeconomic status was derived from self-reported education level, occupation, income, and residence location. A value of P < .05 was considered statistically significant.

A total of 4582 respondents aged 20-60 years were included in the analysis. The overall prevalence of adult asthma was 7.8%. The prevalence of asthma was higher significantly among female and subjects with higher body mass index, allergic rhinitis, smokers, jobless, and individuals who live in suburban areas. In the adjusted logistic regression model, being jobless (odds ratio [OR], 2.256; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.123-4.535) and living in a suburban area (OR, 1.735; 95% CI, 1.058-2.845) were the most significant socioeconomic predictive factors for adult current asthma.

It can be concluded that lower socioeconomic status is associated with higher adult current asthma prevalence. Target interventions are necessary to reduce disparities in healthcare systems.