Publication: Morbidity pattern of children with asthma: A prospective study
Date
2006
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
Objectives: To determine the morbidity pattern of asthma in children attending the paediatric asthma follow-up
clinic.
Materials and methods: Longitudinal prospective follow up of hundred and four patients, diagnosed as asthma,
over a period of 2 years was done. Regular follow up by the same person during each visit and proper supervision of
standard treatment along with parental education regarding the asthma, was done.
Results: The mean age of children presenting with asthma was 6.7 years. Majority of children 49 (47.5%) were
graded as mild persistent asthma. Fifty nine (56.7%) children were missing school more than 7 days per month.
Family history was present in forty one percent of the children. Fifty seven (54.8%) children were taking significant
amount of junk food and were undernourished. Significant reduction in school-missing days and Emergency Room
visits was noted in these children during the follow up period.
Conclusion: Awareness of disease is an important aspect of asthma management. Proper treatment and follow up
with emotional support and education of the care taker, about the asthma, can reduce the morbidity pattern of asthma
in children.
Key words: Prospective study, longitudinal study, Asthma
Description
Manandhar K1, Bajracharya BL2, Dhakal S 3, Shrestha M 4
1Senior Medical Officer, 2Consultant Paediatrician, 3 Medical Officer, 4Professor Paediatrics, Paediatric Department,
Kathmandu Medical College