Abstract:
This research project was undertaken to establish (a) To identify Risk/trigger factors and
socio-demographic characteristics in childhood wheezing in children who presents to a
family practice (b) Effectiveness of ICS in managing childhood asthma and their economic
implications to the patient when used at the primary care level. (c) To describe patient/
parent satisfaction of the management of childhood asthma with inhaled corticosteroids
(ICS).Data was collected at the primary care unit of the Katukurunda Nursing Home in
Kalutara and its branch clinic situated at the southern border of western province eighteen
kilometers away at Aluthgama. Before starting inhaled steroids a consent form was signed
by the parent/guardian of those children selected for ICS therapy. This data was analysed to
arrive at conclusions on the cost-effectiveness of inhaled steroids. Findings of this study
reveal that a family history of eczema and asthma are risk factors for childhood asthma.
Smoking in the presence of the child proved to be a significant risk factor for childhood
asthma. According to this study it was shown that children who got common cold and
sneezing more frequently had a greater chance of developing wheezing. Consumption of
chilled drinks was perceived by the parents/ guardian as trigger factors for childhood
asthma. Using kerosene oil as a fuel for cooking increased the risk of childhood asthma.
Regarding ICS therapy, the study revealed that only 1 percent of patients with asthma
require ICS therapy when they present below 24 months of age. Around 5 percent of
Children who presents with childhood wheezing between 25-60 months of age need ICS
therapy while about 11 percent need ICS when they present with childhood wheezing after
61 months of age. Episodes of asthma were markedly reduced from 7 attacks to 1 attack per
month when inhaled steroids were used for 3 months.
