The prevalence and incidence of asthma and asthma-like symptoms in a general population sample

摘要: We have examined the prevalence of incidence asthma and other wheezing syndromes in subjects a longitudinal epidemiologic study. The point was 6.6%, with highest rates occurring children. Rates were also relatively high older subjects, most whom "chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema" had been concomitantly diagnosed. Other very common this population sample; age groups, some form exceeded 30%. New developed 1.4% who followed over period approximately 4 yr. attacks shortness breath wheeze occurred 10.3% at risk same time period. greatest young children, least late adolescence, increased again early adult life. 1.5 times greater boys than girls but much women 40 yr age, perhaps reflecting diagnostic biases physicians. In younger onset disease strongly associated previously demonstrated allergy skin test reactivity. group de novo, primarily within first few years life or during Subjects after usually prior symptoms chronic bronchial irritation often obvious spirometric abnormalities. these not positive reactions. Because it does appear possible to clearly distinguish "asthma" from bronchitis," label "asthmatic bronchitis" appears be reasonable descriptive term for syndrome.