Asthma, Airflow Obstruction, and Eosinophilic Airway Inflammation Prevalence in Western Kenya: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study

• Main Authors: Neelima Navuluri (Author), David Lagat (Author), Joseph R. Egger (Author), Elcy Birgen (Author), Lameck Diero (Author), David M. Murdoch (Author), Nathan Thielman (Author), Peter S. Kussin (Author), Loretta G. Que (Author), Devon Paul (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Frontiers Media S.A., 2023-08-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

Objectives: Determine the prevalence of airway disease (e.g., asthma, airflow obstruction, and eosinophilic airway inflammation) in Kenya, as well as related correlates of airway disease and health-related quality of life.Methods: A three-stage, cluster-randomized cross-sectional study in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya was conducted. Individuals 12 years and older completed questionnaires (including St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire for COPD, SGRQ-C), spirometry, and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) testing. Prevalence ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Multivariable models were used to assess correlates of airflow obstruction and high FeNO.Results: Three hundred ninety-two participants completed questionnaires, 369 completed FeNO testing, and 305 completed spirometry. Mean age was 37.5 years; 64% were women. The prevalence of asthma, airflow obstruction on spirometry, and eosinophilic airway inflammation was 21.7%, 12.3% and 15.7% respectively in the population. Women had significantly higher SGRQ-C scores compared to men (15.0 vs. 7.7). Wheezing or whistling in the last year and SGRQ-C scores were strongly associated with FeNO levels >50 ppb after adjusting for age, gender, BMI, and tobacco use.Conclusion: Airway disease is a significant health problem in Kenya affecting a young population who lack a significant tobacco use history.

Item Description

1661-8564
10.3389/ijph.2023.1606030