Pediatric asthma knowledge: Insights from a Portuguese central hospital study

Background Asthma is a common chronic condition in children, with parental and child health literacy affecting health outcomes and asthma control. This study examined pediatric asthma knowledge at a Portuguese central hospital and its determinants. Methods We conducted a comparative cross-sectional study, applying the Asthma Knowledge Questionnaire (QCSA), answered by adolescents and/or caregivers. The sample was categorized into two groups based on the presence or absence of respiratory conditions, such as asthma or recurrent wheezing, in children. Those with such conditions (Group A) were further divided into two subgroups: those receiving general pediatric care (Group A2) and those receiving specialized care, followed in pulmonology or allergology consultations (Group A1). Results The study involved 154 participants, predominantly female (74%) with an average age of 31.2 years ( +/- 13.4). The average QCSA score was 14.8 ( +/- 3.2), and Group A exhibited a statistically higher score, 15.5 points +/- 3.2 versus Group B, 14.2 points +/- 3.2, p = .034. Group A1 achieved significantly better scores (16 points: range 4-21) than Group A2 (14 points: range 9-21) (p = .029). Scores were correlated positively with the duration of specialized follow-up (rho = .326; p = .027). Asthma knowledge was correlated with the level of education (r = .468; p < .001). The number of wheezing episodes (r = -.466; p < .001) within the past year were associated to QCSA scores. Conclusion In summary, the presence of respiratory condition, the follow-up in specialized appointments and higher levels of education were associated with greater asthma knowledge.