Prevalence survey on bronchial asthma of Li nationality in Hainan from 2003 to 2007

Objective To learn the prevalence rate and distribution of bronchial asthma of Li nationality in Hainan by epidemiological survey so as to provide rationales for preventing and treating asthma Methods A total of 13 050 subjects of Li nationality in Hainan were investigated by random sampling of stratified cluster method with an unequal ratio according to the medical records, physical signs and symptoms and pulmonary function tests. Then the prevalence was analyzed according to different population characteristics. Results The prevalence rate of asthma was 3.38% for Li nationality in Hainan.And it increased with an advancing age. It was much higher in agricultural population (4. 08% ) than that in cultivation and commercial populations (2. 52% and 1.97%, P ＜0. 01 ). The asthma prevalence rate was in the highest at 4. 62% in rubber workers. And it was much higher in rural areas than that in urban areas (3. 85% vs 2. 63%, P ＜0. 01 ). Conclusions The epidemiological distribution of asthma of Li nationality in Hainan has been determined. And asthma remains a severe problem locally. The efforts of preventing and treating asthma and its education should be strengthened. Key words: Asthma;  Epidemiologic studies;  Prevalence;  Li nationality