Incidence of asthma between adolescence and adulthood : early risk factors and gender differences

• Background: Several studies have shown gender differences in the prevalence of asthma at various ages. The aim was to investigate the development of respiratory symptoms between adolescence and adulthood in relation to baseline risk factors and gender, and the effect on self-rated health. Methods: In the study Screening project asthma in schools, adolescents aged 12–15 years answered a standardised respiratory questionnaire (ISAAC) and underwent measurements of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and lung function (FEV1) at baseline. Two follow-ups with similar questionnaires were performed after four and 16 years, with 491 subjects participating in all three examinations.  Results: The prevalence rates of asthma and wheeze were unchanged after four years, but had increased after 16 years; the increase was significant for females only. A more continuous increase in allergic symptoms showed no gender difference. The adjusted odds ratio [aOR (95% confidence interval)] for the development of asthma was 4.11 (1.27, 13.24) times higher in females with reduced FEV1 and 1.13 (1.06, 1.20) times higher in males with higher FeNO at baseline. Females, but not males, with asthma, rated their health as poor to a higher extent than individuals without asthma at the last follow-up, 20.0% vs. 7.7% (p < 0.01).  Conclusions: An increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms was seen primarily between late adolescence and young adulthood, and was significant for females but not males. To optimise health and wellbeing, gender differences in asthma development, associated risk factors, and treatment of respiratory symptoms, must be considered. 

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Lungmedicin och allergi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Respiratory Medicine and Allergy (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Asthma

Gender

Incidence

Prevalence

Prospective

Epidemiologi

Epidemiology

Lungmedicin

Lung Medicine

Pediatrik

Pediatrics

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