Asthma problems in southern Italy: A statistical study of 2362 asthmatic patients

In this report we have described the statistical results of a clinical study on 2362 asthmatic patients living mostly in the Naples area and observed in our Division of Respiratory Allergy from January 1976 to May 1978. All data have been analyzed by a computerized method using an Univac 1100 Computer. We have studied some aspects of the atopic syndrome in this population of Southern Italy: frequency of allergic sensitization according to endogenous and extrinsic factors (particularly Parietaria officinalis, a characteristic pollen of the Southern Italian Flora), etc. Finally we have presented the first results of our allergological investigation in Naples concerning the distribution of allergic sensitization according to air pollution of the patient's home.