An evaluation of parental knowledge of childhood asthma in a family practice setting

To measure and evaluate parental knowledge of and misconceptions with regard to childhood asthma and its treatment.

A cross-sectional, descriptive survey.

A family practice in Mandalay, Mitchell's Plain, on the Cape Flats.

The sample comprised all parents (N = 105) with an asthmatic child aged between 2 and 18 years attending the practice. The response rate was 95.2%.

A semi-structured questionnaire which included a 55-item psychometrically validated asthma knowledge test.

An average score of 72% was achieved. Parents were most knowledgeable about aetiology, symptomatology, pathophysiology, precipitants and environmental control. They were less informed about asthma therapy, asthma prognosis and general medical knowledge. In addition, numerous misconceptions were identified, which together with the knowledge deficiencies, could lead to inadvertent non-compliance. Parental concerns centred predominantly on their lack of confidence to manage acute asthma attacks, and fears about asthma prognosis.

The study underscores the need for systematic asthma education, especially with regard to acute attack management and preventive medications. In addition, parents must acquire confidence and practical skills to cope with acute attacks.