Prevalence of asthma in Galway city school children

To determine the prevalence of asthma in the past 12 months in nine year old Galway school children, a questionnaire on respiratory symptoms was distributed to children for completion by parents and returned to the school. We issued 896 questionnaires and 832 (426 boys and 406 girls) were returned completed. The overall response was 93%. The prevalence of wheeze in the past 12 months was 16.1%. A history of wheeze was more common in boys than in Girls. (19.7% Vs 12.3%). Overall, 67% of those reporting wheeze also reported a history of diagnosed asthma and 74% had used a bronchodilator. 60% reported a history of exercise induced wheezing and 67% had nocturnal cough. 28% were taking prophylactic medication. The current prevalence of asthma in Galway city school children is high. There is an increased willingness to diagnose and treat asthma in this community.