International comparison of asthma prevalence in children: Australia, Switzerland, Chile

摘要: The aim of the study was to determine if prevalence symptoms suggestive asthma in school-age children similar three countries with differing language and culture. To answer this question, we used same instrument, translated appropriately, for schoolchildren Melbourne, Australia, St. Gallen, Switzerland, La Serena, Chile. A page respiratory questionnaire issued schools distribution completion by parents return school. Three age groups were selected study, based on average school grade. Grades ages 7, 12, 15 years, respectively. total 26,628 questionnaires (Australia, 10,981; 4.464; Chile, 11,163). response rates each country 89% 97.5% 71% Chile. The wheezing last 12 months 7 year olds 23.1% 7.4% 26.5% Serena; it 20.9% 6.0% 21.l% 18.6% 4.5% 17.7% Serene. history more common boys than girls at Melbourne but not Serena. This difference less seen 15. Among those who had reported months, bronchodilator use 83% (1,611/1,948) from 46% (1 18/259) 47% (538/1,140) Serena. The Switzerland much lower that Australia or Now a has been demonstrated, may be desirable compare environmental factors between different rates. Pediatr Pulmonol. 1993; 16:219–226. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.