Epidemiology of bronchial asthma

ABSTRACT

One hundred and eighty four patients with asthma were administered a questionnaire to obtain information on personal lifestyle, occupational history, family history of allergy, respiratory symptoms, smoking habits, and history about asthma. Patients were also subjected to detailed clinical assessment and investigations. In children asthma was more prevalent in males, while in adults, it was more prevalent among females. The majority of patients [89.7%] were life-long non-smokers. Allergic rhinitis [63.6%] was frequently encountered among the patients. A family history of asthma was reported by 52.2% of the patients. A paternal history of asthma was associated significantly with occurrence of asthma before the age of 15 years. Adult onset of asthma and history of allergy were significant risk factors affecting the course of an attack episode. The episode of asthma was seasonal in patients with early onset of asthma during childhood and in those with a personal history of allergy. Nocturnal deterioration of asthmatic symptoms were reported by a large proportion of the patients [81.8%]; young-onset asthma and personal history of allergy were significant risk factors for developing nocturnal attacks of asthma. Sensitivity to food, respiratory irritants and changes in the weather were significant stimuli for an attack in adults and older patients with asthma. Infection was an important stimulus for asthmatic attacks in young asthmatics. The role of occupational exposure was significant in the occurrence and severity of asthma