Parents' perception and knowledge about corticosteroid

Abstract

Rationale Since compliance of medication is essential for the successful treatment of asthma and allergic diseases, we collected the information about the perception and knowledge about corticosteroid (steroid) among the parents of children with asthma or allergic disorders. Methods We interviewed referred 210 consecutive parents of children who were treated with steroids. Patients were divided into 3 groups: 107 had allergic rhinitis (AR), 70 had allergic asthma (AA), and 33 had atopic dermatitis(AD). All of them used some form of steroids, half used regularly and half only intermittently. Results 1). Most parents (92%) understood the steroid helped control symptoms. 2). Eighty percent of parents were concerned about the use of steroids. 3). Five major reasons of concern: weight gain (60%), organ damages (46%), stunted growth (27%), brittle bone (20%), and hypertension (13%). 4). Did health professionals ever explain side effects? Eighty percent said “No”. 5). Temptation of avoiding the use of steroid: very often (33%), sometimes (53%), and never (13%). 6). How soon after the steroid treatment, the temptation began? Immediately (13%), in less than 1 month (13%), in less than 6 months (34%). Conclusion 1). Majority of parents are concerned about the use of steroids in children. 2). This concern may turn into phobia and can influence the medical compliance and the final outcome of treating chronic diseases like asthma and allergic disorders. 3). Medical education is acutely needed to address the parental concern of the use of steroids.