Underdiagnosis and undertreatment of asthma: A 9-year study of Italian conscripts

Background. During the last 20 years, the epidemiology of asthma has been i nvestigated in various populations, thus providing interesting data includi ng the accuracy of diagnosis and the adequacy of treatment. Methods: We stu died for 9 years the epidemiological features of asthma in a homogeneous po pulation of 18-year-old males referred to La Spezia Military Navy Hospital for a call-up visit (conscripts). Results: During the period of 1990-1998, 91,700 men were screened at their call-up visit; out of them 5,371 (7%) had asthma, but in 7.4% the disease had not been previously diagnosed. During the observation period there was a significant decrease of the level III se verity of asthma, but about one quarter of the asthmatic subjects received no treatment at all. On the other hand, a significant increase in the presc ription of inhaled steroids was observed. Conclusion: Despite educational e fforts, a not negligible underdiagnosis and inadequate treatment of asthma in young adults still persist. Copyright (C) 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel.