Asthma: a major pediatric health issue
2002

Asthma Trends in Children

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Smyth Rosalind L

Primary Institution: University of Liverpool, Institute of Child Health, Alder Hey Children's Hospital

Hypothesis

There is currently no unifying hypothesis to explain the trends in asthma incidence and prevalence in children.

Conclusion

Asthma incidence and prevalence in children have increased over the past few decades, with some decline in recent years, particularly concerning for preschool children.

Supporting Evidence

  • The incidence of asthma attacks in preschool children peaked in 1993 at 11 times higher than in 1976.
  • The prevalence of diagnosed asthma in children aged 2–15 years was recorded as 20.7% in England.
  • Hospital admissions for asthma in preschool children are more than three times higher than in older children.

Takeaway

Asthma is getting more common in kids, especially little ones, but it seems to be getting a bit better lately.

Methodology

The review analyzes trends in asthma incidence, prevalence, and morbidity based on various studies and data sources.

Limitations

The review does not provide a unifying hypothesis for the observed trends in asthma.

Participant Demographics

The review discusses asthma trends in children of various ethnic backgrounds in the UK.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0001

Statistical Significance

p<0.0001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/rr188

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