Prevalence And Determinants Of Childhood Asthma: A Study From Western India.

Abstract

Background: Asthma is a common disease worldwide with significant ethnic and regional variations. This study will provide evidence about the prevalence of asthma and will highlight level of problem in community.

Objectives: To estimate prevalence of asthma and its determinants

Methods: This study was conducted in school-going children of standard 5 to 8 in Bhavnagar city in 2015. Sample size was 1428. All schools of Bhavnagar city were listed and required number of schools were selected randomly and approached for consent.  Study forms were filled up by personal interview and physical examination followed by house to house visits. Data entry and analysis were done using software Epi info 7. Chi square test was calculated.

Results: Total prevalence of asthma was 9% (129/1428). Out of these, 61.18% were female and 38.82% were male children. It was found 36.43% in age group of 11 years and 47.3% in children of lower socio economic class. In out study, 28.68% had history of smoking by any family member (p <0.05). No significant association was fount between asthma and family history, pets, type, place, cross ventilation in kitchen.

Conclusion: Female children are 1.58 times more likely to develop asthma than male children. Children whose family members smoke are 2.35 times more likely to develop asthma.