Key Findings from the Study
The study revealed the following key findings:
- The prevalence of current wheeze was 10.4% in children aged 6-7 years and 13.3% in adolescents aged 13-14 years.
- Asthma ever was reported by 13.8% of children and 15.7% of adolescents.
- Symptoms of severe asthma were present in 5.2% of children and 5.6% of adolescents.
- Risk factors for current wheeze included antibiotic use in the first year of life and a history of pneumonia in children, and paracetamol use and having a cat at home in adolescents.
Implications for Practitioners
To improve asthma management outcomes, practitioners can implement the following strategies based on the study's findings:
- Early Identification and Intervention: Regular screening for asthma symptoms, especially in children with a history of antibiotic use in their first year of life or pneumonia, can help in early identification and intervention.
- Parental Education: Educate parents about the potential risk factors associated with asthma, such as the use of paracetamol and exposure to pets, to help them make informed decisions about their child's health.
- Written Asthma Action Plans: Ensure that children diagnosed with asthma have a written asthma action plan. This can significantly improve asthma management and reduce the severity of symptoms.
- Adherence to Medication: Encourage adherence to prescribed medications, particularly inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), which are often underused. Regular follow-ups and counseling can improve adherence rates.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, further research is essential to continuously improve asthma management strategies. Practitioners are encouraged to:
- Participate in Ongoing Studies: Engage in national and international studies to contribute to the global understanding of asthma prevalence and management.
- Conduct Local Research: Investigate specific regional factors that may influence asthma prevalence and severity to tailor interventions more effectively.
- Collaborate with Schools: Work closely with schools to implement asthma education programs and ensure that children with asthma receive appropriate care during school hours.
Conclusion
By implementing the findings from the study and engaging in further research, practitioners can significantly improve asthma outcomes for children and adolescents in Saudi Arabia. This data-driven approach ensures that interventions are based on the latest evidence, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for the younger population.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The burden of asthma among children and adolescents in Saudi Arabia: A national cross-sectional survey.
