Asthma Prevalence and Socio-Economic Factors in Brazilian Schoolchildren
Author Information
Author(s): da Cunha Sérgio Souza, Pujades-Rodriguez Mar, Barreto Mauricio Lima, Genser Bernd, Rodrigues Laura C
Primary Institution: Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal de Bahia
Hypothesis
This study aimed to examine the relationship between asthma prevalence in Brazilian children and socio-economic indicators.
Conclusion
The prevalence of asthma in urban areas of Brazil is higher in cities with more marked poverty or inequality.
Supporting Evidence
- Asthma prevalence increased with poorer sanitation and higher infant mortality.
- Higher illiteracy rates were associated with lower asthma prevalence.
- The study included 20 cities and analyzed data from multiple surveys.
Takeaway
Kids in poorer areas of Brazil are more likely to have asthma. If a city has more poverty, it usually means more kids have asthma.
Methodology
The study analyzed population-based surveys of asthma in Brazilian cities, using linear regression models to examine associations with socio-economic indicators.
Potential Biases
Random variation may partly explain some findings due to the small number of surveys.
Limitations
The ecological nature of the study may not reflect individual-level associations, and the number of surveys is relatively small.
Participant Demographics
Surveys included children aged 6-7 years and 13-14 years from 20 cities in Brazil.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.007
Confidence Interval
0.05; 0.24
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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