Assessment of Asthma Prevalence and Contributing Factors in 6- and 7-Year-Old Students: A Cross-Sectional Analysis on Santiago Island, Cabo Verde, 2022 - Report - MDSpire
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Assessment of Asthma Prevalence and Contributing Factors in 6- and 7-Year-Old Students: A Cross-Sectional Analysis on Santiago Island, Cabo Verde, 2022
Clinical Report: Assessment of Asthma Prevalence in Cabo Verdean Children
Overview
This study estimates the prevalence of asthma among 6- and 7-year-old children on Santiago Island, Cabo Verde, finding a current asthma prevalence of 10.5%. Significant associations were identified between asthma and comorbidities such as rhinitis, as well as risk factors including antibiotic exposure and protective factors like breastfeeding.
Background
Asthma is a significant pediatric health issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to care is limited. The prevalence of asthma among children in Africa has been rising, yet data specific to Cabo Verde is scarce. Understanding asthma prevalence and its contributing factors is crucial for developing effective public health strategies.
Data Highlights
Measure
Value
Current asthma prevalence
10.5% (95% CI 8.7–12.4)
Physician diagnosis prevalence
5%
Rhinitis prevalence
20.1%
Eczema prevalence
12.2%
Asthmatic children with rhinitis
59%
Asthmatic children with eczema
18%
Key Findings
The prevalence of current asthma among children was found to be 10.5%.
Only 5% of children with asthma had a physician diagnosis.
Boys were more affected than girls, with prevalence rates of 12.6% vs. 8.5%.
Current rhinitis was identified as a strong comorbidity (aOR: 7.86).
Antibiotic exposure in the first year of life was associated with increased asthma risk (aOR: 2.10).
Breastfeeding was identified as a protective factor against asthma (aOR: 0.19).
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should be aware of the high prevalence of undiagnosed asthma in children and the importance of screening for comorbidities like rhinitis. Promoting breastfeeding and rational antibiotic use during infancy may help reduce asthma incidence.
Conclusion
The findings underscore the need for improved asthma management and screening in Cabo Verde, highlighting the importance of addressing both environmental and clinical factors in pediatric populations.
