Prévalence de l’asthme et ses conséquences en milieu scolaire à Brazzaville

Abstract

Introduction

Asthma is the most common chronic respiratory condition in children, affecting 7–10% of the school-age population. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and describe the consequences of asthma on the academic course of asthmatic children in Congo.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study from February 14 to June 30, 2022, in Brazzaville. One class each from the primary and secondary cycles was randomly selected without replacement from 12 institutions, totaling 700 students. Each surveyed student completed a questionnaire and underwent a physical examination and spirometry before and after an exercise challenge. Reversibility testing was performed in cases of identified obstructive syndrome.

Results

The prevalence of asthma was 7%. The frequency of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction was 10.2% in asthmatics versus 3.2% in non-asthmatics (OR = 0.29 [0.07–0.29], P < 0.001). Atopy was found in 75.5% of asthmatic cases versus 32% in non-asthmatics (OR = 0.15 [0.07–0.29], P < 0.001). A significant number of students (42.8%) exhibited persistent and uncontrolled asthma. Our study revealed that 49% (n = 24) of asthmatics had at least one absence per year compared to 1.1% (7 cases/651) in non-asthmatics (P < 0.001). Asthma motivated the discontinuation of all sports activities in 34.7% (n = 17) of cases. Academic delay was observed in 24.5% of asthmatics.

Conclusion

The prevalence of asthma in the school environment is significant and has a real impact on the academic trajectory of students. The implementation of an Individualized Action Plan (IAP) would be beneficial to enhance their integration.