The present study was therefore, undertaken to estimate prevalence of asthma in school going children in Ahmedabad. A total of 1561 children were surveyed comprising of urban (992) and rural population (569) using questionnaire and Pulmonary Function Test. Data of demographic profile, information on allergy, passive smoking exposure, and family history of asthma were collected by questionnaire. Pulmonary Function Test was carried out for assessment of lung function by spirometer. Prevalence of asthma among school going children of Ahmedabad, aged 12 to 17 years is, 4.48%. Gender difference and residential area (rural and urban) are not significantly associated with the prevalence of asthma. Prevalence rates of asthma among school going children with family history of asthma (35.71%), allergy (60%) and passive smoking exposure (41.42%) were significantly higher. (p<0.005) In Ahmedabad population, the prevalence of asthma among school going children of 12 to 17 years is 4.46%. Prevalence of asthma is associated with passive smoking exposure, family history of asthma and allergy. Presence of allergy is the most prominent risk factor for development of asthma.
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