PREVALENCE OF ASTHMA AND ASTHMA-LIKE SYMPTOMS IN YOUNG-ADULTS LIVING IN 3 EAST ANGLIAN TOWNS

Background. The European Community respiratory health survey is examin ing the prevalence of asthma and risk factors for asthma. Aim. As part of this multinational survey, a study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of asthma and asthma-like symptoms in young adults living in Cambridge, Ipswich and Norwich using a postal questionnaire. Method , A previously validated symptom questionnaire was sent to 2500 men an d 2500 women aged 20-44 years living in and registered with a general practitioner in each of the three towns. Results. In total, approximat ely 9000 adults responded. The prevalence of symptoms suggestive of as thma was found to be similar in the three towns. Of respondents, 8% re ported having been woken by an attack of shortness of breath at some t ime in the last 12 months, higher than previously reported. Five per c ent reported having had an asthma attack. Conclusion. General practiti oners wishing to examine asthma prevalence in their own practice popul ation could use a similar methodology