Knowledge, Attitudes And Practices (KAP) Of Primary Care Physicians Of Central Mumbai Suburbs About Childhood Asthma

Abstract

Objective: Corticosteroids form the mainstay of present-day treatment of childhood asthma. Its use in early phase of asthma attack is vital. This study was conducted to determine extent of pediatric asthma knowledge at primary care level in Central Mumbai, India, and to analyze methods to increase awareness on role of corticosteroids in these young asthmatics. Methods: 440 family physicians were asked to answer a pre-tested specially designed simple questionnaire containing questions on management of childhood asthma. The answers were evaluated to exmane for differences, if any, in the managing these children for doctors with ≤10 years and those with > 10 years of practice. Modes of updating knowledge among these doctors were estimated, and their relation with the current management practices of these doctors was analyzed. Results: Our study revealed that proper prescription of corticosteroids was carried out by only 18.2% of family doctors. Significant number of doctors prescribed antihistamines, antibiotics and dietary restrictions on all asthmatic children, and nebulisers /inhalers remained under-used. Family doctors relied commonly on journals, company brochures, and conferences to keep themselves updated. Conclusion: Awareness about newer trends in childhood asthma management is less among family physicians with no difference based on number of years out in practice. This needs to be improved for optimal management of these children. Present modes of information dissemination to these professionally isolated and busy doctors are insufficient and require supplementation and reinforcement.