Asthmamanagement im Kindes- und Jugendalter

Background

Despite widespread use of anti-inflammatory drugs the morbidity of asthma in the paediatric age group is still increasing. Los acceptance of therapy may be a reason for this.

Methods

A validated questionnaire was administered in to 101 children and 109 of their parents in personal interviews and to 102 paediatriicians in telephone interviews.

Results

The majority of the children and their parents expressed dissatisfaction with the current asthma management. Children and their parents expressed very similar judgments, but the answers given by the paediatricians differed notably from those of both other groups. The physicians underestimated the time taken up by the therapy, and overestimated the patients’ anxiety aboutasthma drugs. New types of inhalers (dry powder inhalers; DPIs) were not rated at all highly, “classic” MDIs (metered dose inhalers) being preferred by children and their parents, followed by tablets or capsules. Physicians imagined patients would prefer DPIs,as they themselves thought these were superior for inhalation therapy. In addition, children and their parents reported more frequently than the paediatricians imagined that they would like more information on the disease and the medication available, Especially if this were presented in a group situation or through the new media.

Conclusion

It will not be possible to improve compliance in asthma management unless the frequency of drug administration isreduced and better communication between doctor and patient is achieved.