Journal article

Prevalence of asthma and allergic disorders in regional, rural, and indigenous children aged 6–8 years in Tasmania

HC Weber, EH Walters, M Frandsen, SC Dharmage

Journal of Asthma | TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD | Published : 2019

Abstract

Objective: Asthma and allergic diseases are poorly described in rural areas. The objective of this study was, therefore, to determine the prevalence of wheezing, asthma, and other allergic disorders among children living in regional and rural Tasmania. Methodology: Data from a cross-sectional survey using standardized questionnaires of asthma, allergic conditions and food allergies were collected from 39 primary schools across North West Tasmania. We enrolled 1075 children between 6 and 8 years. The main outcomes were prevalences of wheezing, asthma, and other allergic disorders further stratified by sex and indigenous status. Results: Baseline characteristics were as follows: median age 8.1..

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University of Melbourne Researchers

Grants

Funding Acknowledgements

The authors thank the following medical students who assisted with various phases of the study: Adrian Lee, Sanjay Dutt, Kaitlin Duell, Ashtyn Thomas, Alistair Dunbar, Victoria Jordan, Patrick Rasmussen and Brodie Carlon. A/Prof Lizzi Shires, Colleen Cheeck, and Richard Roozendal made a contribution on behalf of the Rural Clinical School, UTAS. Gaylene Bassett and Patrick Salter are thanked for their contributions. This study was funded with a research award from the Clifford Craig Research Trust. The authors further wish to thank the school personnel, school boards, parents/guardians, and the children who participated.