[Evaluation of a program for asthmatic children treated in primary care outpatient units in Embu, São Paulo, 1988-1993]
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1Programa de Integração Docente-Assistencial do Embu, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Botucatu 740, São Paulo, SP, 04023-900, Brasil.
Insights
This study shows that consistent adherence to the Program Targeting Children with Chest Wheezing improves outcomes for pediatric asthma patients. Even with simple treatments, steady compliance leads to better clinical evolution and fewer exacerbations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Public Health Interventions
- Clinical Effectiveness Research
Background:
- Chest wheezing is a common respiratory issue in children.
- Effective management programs are crucial for pediatric respiratory health.
- The Program Targeting Children with Chest Wheezing was implemented in Embu, São Paulo.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the Program Targeting Children with Chest Wheezing.
- To assess clinical outcomes and treatment adherence in pediatric patients.
- To identify factors influencing treatment success in children with chest wheezing.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 434 children aged 0-14 years enrolled between May 1988 and July 1993.
- Review of clinical diagnoses, treatment compliance, and healthcare referrals.
- Longitudinal follow-up of patients, particularly moderate and severe cases, for over a year.
Main Results:
- The program successfully diagnosed asthma in children over 2 years old.
- Children with moderate to severe cases and good medication compliance showed improved clinical evolution.
- A significant dropout rate (53.2%) was observed, primarily within the first six months, especially in moderate cases.
Conclusions:
- Consistent patient compliance with the program significantly benefits children with chest wheezing.
- The program demonstrated effectiveness despite its simplicity and limitations in available medications.
- Adherence to treatment is a key factor for positive clinical outcomes in pediatric respiratory conditions.
Abstract:
The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Program Targeting Children with 'Chest Wheezing' carried in the city of Embu, São Paulo. The study analyzed a total of 434 children aged zero to 14 years, admitted to the program from May 1988 to July 1993. Over 90% had never been treated for this medical problem in outpatient clinics. Only 6.2% had to be referred to other health care services during follow-up in this program. The program successfully performed clinical diagnosis of asthma in children over 2 years of age. The moderate and severe cases followed up for over a year showed the best clinical evolution, with the positive factor being better compliance with medication. The number of exacerbations decreased among the severe patients after a year of regular follow-up, although patients used bronchodilators during the 12 months of our analysis. Of the children enrolled, 53.2% gave up treatment principally in the first six months, most of them from the moderate group. We concluded that children with steadier compliance with the program benefited in spite of both the simplicity and the lack of some currently existing medications.
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