OBJECTIVE: Determine the prevalence and risk factors of wheeze and severe wheeze in 13-to 14-year-old children. METHODS: The study was conducted August 2004 to February 2005 in the Polokwane area, South Africa. RESULTS: The 12-month prevalence rate was 18.9% for wheeze and 9.2% for severe wheeze (n = 3,926). The presence of other allergic symptoms and industrial activities appear to increase the likelihood of wheeze, even more so for severe wheeze. Socioeconomic-related factors appear to have a protective effect on wheeze. CONCLUSIONS: Wheeze appears to be a substantial public health problem in the Polokwane area.
OBJECTIVE: Determine the prevalence and risk factors of wheeze and severe wheeze in 13-to 14-year-old children. METHODS: The study was conducted August 2004 to February 2005 in the Polokwane area, South Africa. RESULTS: The 12-month prevalence rate was 18.9% for wheeze and 9.2% for severe wheeze (n = 3,926). The presence of other allergic symptoms and industrial activities appear to increase the likelihood of wheeze, even more so for severe wheeze. Socioeconomic-related factors appear to have a protective effect on wheeze. CONCLUSIONS: Wheeze appears to be a substantial public health problem in the Polokwane area.