Title: Prevalence of Bronchial Asthma among School Children (Under 12 Years of Age) In Nedumangadu Municipality Area

Authors: P S Sreejith,V.S.Kirankumar

 DOI:  http://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v4i7.37

Abstract

Background. Bronchial asthma is the chronic airway obstruction and increased airway hyperresponsiveness. The prevalence of bronchial asthma increased steadily over the latter part of the last century, first in the developed and then in the developing world.

Objective To find out the prevalence of bronchial asthma among school children under 12 years and to find out the association between bronchial asthma and its risk factors.

Methodology A Cross sectional study was conducted in Nedumangad area during the period May-August 2014. 200 children under age of 12 were interviewed using questionnaire and examined. Data was analysed using SPSS Version 16. Results: Out of 200 study population, 18.5%, ie, 37 persons were found to be asthmatic. Of these 81% are males,93% had positive family history,73% are passive smokers,86.6% had history of other allergy,80% are exposed to allergens. There is association between gender and bronchial asthma. (chi square=11.61)Odds ratio = 3.65. p value=0.056. There is association between family history and bronchial asthma. Odds ratio = 2.52. p value = 0.022.

Conclusion. Of the total study population 18.5% are asthmatic. There is significant statistical association between gender, family history and bronchial asthma.

Keywords: PREVALENCE, BRONCHIAL ASTHMA, SCHOOL, CHILDREN UNDER 12 YEARS.

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Corresponding Author

P S Sreejith

Associate Prof, Dept of Community Medicine

SUT Academy of Medical Sciences, Thiruvananthapuram

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