Results
During the period between 2010 and 2016 the questionnaire was completed
by parents of approximately 6400 children from a total potential
population of approximately 70,000 children (9.1%). For the present
study, we attempted to contact 900 families of children with a positive
screening questionnaire (14.1%). Study data were retrieved for 578
(64.2%) children (5.7 to 6.5 years old) referred for asthma assessment
from whom lung function data were available. Asthma was confirmed in 549
children, 438 were treated with short acting bronchodilator alone and
111 with inhaled corticosteroids.
On grouped data, marked improvements were seen in all of the clinical
variables assessed, in asthma control and in lung function (Table 2).
Asthma control was improved in 58% of children, with fewer daytime and
nocturnal symptoms and improved activity and fewer days off school due
to asthma in more than 50% of children. Emergency department visits
were reduced in more than 80% of children.
Table 2: Asthma-like symptoms, activity limitation, health
service utilization and asthma control in the 3 months before and after
asthma diagnosis and treatment.