[Report on the current knowledge of Vienna primary school teachers about bronchial asthma in children]

This study was performed to examine the causes, triggers and therapy of bronchial asthma in a statistically relevant group of teachers at primary schools in Vienna. Furthermore, it was intended to investigate the correlation between their knowledge and their approach in respect of the management of asthmatic pupils.

1054 (80.4%) of 1311 questionnaires were returned and evaluated. Five items were investigated: "general knowledge", "symptoms and triggers"; "exercise", "treatment" and "individual experience". Statistical analysis was performed by using counting statistics. For the correlation of items, Spearman correlation coefficients and Wilcoxon's test were used.

The teachers in primary schools showed a good basic knowledge of asthma and its symptoms. Poor understanding was found with regard to the medical treatment and trigger factors of asthma; only 34% of the teachers knew that playing games in cold wind may provoke an exacerbation of asthma; less than half of the teachers (45%) were aware of the fact that an asthma attack can be prevented by prophylactic treatment. A significantly positive correlation was found between previous instruction on asthma and its management, the degree of individual experience, and the correct belief that asthmatic children should be encouraged to fully participate in school sports and activities (p = 0.001). Most of the teachers (94%) felt the lack of sufficient information. Only 2% had received proper instruction on asthma and revealed a significantly better knowledge of all items (p = 0.0001).

We suggest that teachers at primary school receive further instruction on asthma, especially regarding its practical aspects.