Asthma knowledge among parents of asthmatic children and the functional severity of asthma in their children

Abstract

There is widespread evidence that childhood asthma is increasing, especially in industrialized countries (Kuehni et al, 2001; Kwong et al, 2001; Akinbami et al, 2003; NCHS, 2006; Russell, 2006) although additional years of data collection are necessary in Malta to confirm such a trend locally. Consequently, there is high utilization of health care services which has a large financial impact on health care systems, families and societies (Lozano et al, 1999; Stevens et al, 2004). Within this context, it is prudent to identify childhood asthma as a significant and important public health problem which requires further study in the local Maltese settings. Asthma knowledge among parents of asthmatic children and how this relates to asthma outcomes in their children was reviewed in the literature. A cross-sectional observational study was carried out at the Children's Outpatient department of St.Luke's hospital, where 140 parents accepted to participate over a 3 month interval. Data was collected through face to face structured interviews. Results indicated that parents' asthma knowledge was good while doctors, nurses and other health care professionals were cited as the most valuable source of information. The majority of children were classified as having low to mild functional severity scores. Functional severity scores were found to be significantly associated to the age of the child and to having a bird. Overall, asthma knowledge scores among parents of asthmatic children were found to be significantly correlated to functional severity scores in their children, even after adjusting for the age of the child and for having a bird. In conclusion, recommendations, in light of the findings were drawn up, so as to provide groundwork for clinical practice, public health education and research.