Assessing Knowledge on Asthma Self-Care among School-Aged Children in Bangladesh: A Study of Demographic Influences

Background: Asthma is a common respiratory illness in children that causes episodes of bronchial spasm and makes it difficult to breathe. Common triggers include allergens, respiratory infections, irritants, physical activity, and family history. Children with asthma often exhibit symptoms such as nighttime coughing, wheezing, and fatigue during activities. India and the US have high incidence rates of childhood asthma, with the US reporting 6.8 million children with asthma in 2012. Proper self-care management, including allergen control, medication use, exercise, and healthy habits can help prevent worsening of symptoms.

Objective: This study aims to assess the level of knowledge on asthma self-care among school-aged children with asthma in certain schools and to determine the relationship between their knowledge score and demographic factors. The ultimate goal is to create a self-management information pamphlet for asthma.

Methods: The study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of self-care management for schoolchildren with asthma in selected schools in Bogra, Bangladesh. A quantitative research approach with a descriptive design was used to collect and analyze data from 105 schoolchildren with asthma between the ages of 10-16 years. The study consisted of two variables, knowledge of self-care management of asthma and demographic variables such as age, sex, religion, etc. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire with 42 items, which was given a score based on the correctness of answers. The validity and reliability of the tool was assessed. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to meet the objectives of the study. An information booklet on self-care management of asthma was also distributed to the participants.

Result: A study of 105 school children on their self-care management of asthma was conducted. The respondents were categorized based on age, sex, and class. The data was analyzed using chi-square test and showed that age, sex, and class had an effect on the children's knowledge. The highest percentage of moderate knowledge was found in 11-12 year-olds (51.35%), female respondents (18.18%), and 6-7th standard students (49.12%). The results were not statistically significant (p-value > 0.05). The data also showed a relationship between some socio-demographic characteristics (age group, class studying, area of residence, and marital status of parents) and knowledge level, while other characteristics (sex, religion, family income, education of parents, occupation of parents) did not have a significant relationship. The study showed that some socio-demographic characteristics have an effect on children's knowledge of self-care management of asthma, while others do not.

Conclusion: This study provides insights into characteristics of asthmatic school children and their families. Most respondents had moderate knowledge about asthma. The marital status, education, occupation, duration of asthma, and health problems in the family did not significantly impact the knowledge level. Further research is needed to understand the determinants of knowledge about asthma in these populations.