Burden of Asthma Among a Sample of Primary Schoolchildren in Jordan Based on Child and Parental Report.

Background: Asthma is a major health issue with an extensive burden to family and health systems. Different measures were used previously to assess disease burden, including prevalence, school performance, parental perceptions, and cost among others.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to assess the burden of asthma among schoolchildren using parental and child reports and metered-dose inhaler (MDI) demonstration.

Methods: A descriptive exploratory design based on parent and child self-reports was employed. Parents of children with asthma completed a questionnaire about asthma management and burden including symptoms and health services use. A sample of children with asthma completed a questionnaire measuring their perception of asthma management at school. An assessment of children's proper use of MDI inhalers was also conducted.

Results: The burden of asthma was high in the current sample with the majority of children experiencing symptoms, asthma exacerbations, emergency department (ED) visits, and admission because of their asthma. The majority of participating children also performed incorrect inhaler technique, which reflects uncontrolled asthma and poor management. Parental perception of their child's health compared well with their burden of asthma.

Conclusion: The outcomes of this study and previous reports show an alarmingly high burden of asthma. This calls for collaboration between professionals and stakeholders with children and caregivers in planning and implementing care, including improving the school environment.