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Childhood chronic lung disease in the United Arab Emirates
1Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
Insights
Children in Al Ain, UAE, with severe chronic lung disease (CLD) were studied. Indigenous Arab children showed a higher risk for these serious lung conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Pulmonology
- Public Health
Background:
- Chronic lung disease (CLD) in children presents a significant health challenge.
- Understanding referral patterns is crucial for managing pediatric respiratory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the referral patterns of children diagnosed with severe chronic lung disease in Al Ain, UAE.
- To identify the primary diagnoses and at-risk populations for severe pediatric lung disease in the region.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational study over a 1-year period.
- Analysis of 45 children with severe lung disease from an estimated population of 90,000.
- Utilized Chest X-ray and high-resolution computed tomography (CT) for diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis (CF), and congenital lung disorders were the most frequent diagnoses.
- The indigenous Arab population, comprising 50% of the district's population, exhibited a heightened risk for severe lung disease.
- Chest X-ray and CT scans were the primary diagnostic imaging tools.
Conclusions:
- Severe chronic lung disease in children is observed in Al Ain, UAE, with specific diagnostic patterns.
- Indigenous Arab children represent a vulnerable group requiring targeted attention for severe lung conditions.
- Effective diagnostic imaging, including CT scans, is essential for identifying pediatric lung diseases.
Abstract:
We report our observations on the pattern of referral of children with chronic lung disease (CLD) in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. In a 1-year period 45 children were seen with severe lung disease from an estimated childhood population of 90,000. Bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis (CF) and congenital lung disorders were the main diagnoses made. The indigenous Arab population who represent half the total population of the district appear to be at particular risk of severe lung disease. Chest X-ray and high resolution computerized tomography (CT) were the most commonly used imaging investigations to reach a diagnosis.