A Concurrent Study of Knowledge & Perceptions of Asthma among Parents & Guardians of Asthmatic Children

Asthma is the commonest chronic illness of childhood and account for more school absentism than any other chronic illness^{(1, 2)}. According to star field⁽³⁾, 10.5% of children have suffered from one or more episode of Asthma by age of 17 years. Western studies have also unequivocally established the increased prevalance of Asthma. The number of hospital admission and death due to Asthma have also increased. Parental perception of the child's illness is a significant factor in the compliance with treatment. In addition, parental perception of what the child may or may not be able to do greatly influence what the child then believes he or she is capable of accomplishing^{(6, 7)}. Studies conducted in the past have shown inadequate physician parent communication, basic misconception about the illness and drug treatment and problems pertaining to discipline and over protection.

The present study was conducted to assess the level of understanding and believes held by parent of Asthmatic children regarding the causations, prognosis and treatment of Asthma.