Prevalence of symptoms of asthma, allergic rhinitis and eczema in 6-7 and 13-14 years old ahvazian school children

ABSTRACT

The prevalence rates of symptoms of asthma, allergic rhinitis and eczema which are common disorders of children vary widely in different areas. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence and severity of allergic disorders among Ahvazian children by ISAAC protocol in 2006-7. The descriptive study was conducted on primary [6-7 years] and guidance [13-14 years] schoolchildren who were randomly selected among Ahvaz schools by cluster sampling method. Data were collected using phase I standardized International study of asthma and Allergy in child hoos [ISAAC] questionnaire which was completed by schoolchildren itself or by the parent of each child. Data were analyzed by SPSS-15 and using Chi-square test. The prevalence of symptoms of asthma, allergic rhinitis and eczema were 14.1%, 18.2% and 8.4% respectively. Sex difference was not significant, while by educational level guidance students showed significant higher prevalence for asthma and allergies [11.8% vs 16.4% P<0.01]. The Prevalence of [physician diagnosed] asthma, allergic rhinitis and eczema" were 8.4%, 12.3% and 5.7% respectively; guidance school children in compare to elementary school children showed higher rate in the each 3 conditions [P<0.01]. Allergic disorders are common in Ahvaz and its prevalence is similar to those reported from other parts of Iran. The prevalence of physician diagnosed asthma was higher than that reported from other regions of Iran, but lower than those obtained from neighboring Arab countries