Patients' Awareness of Pharmacotherapy and Asthma Risk Factors at Private Clinics in Sanaa, Yemen

Abstract

Background: Asthma is a chronic illness of the bronchi that is characterized by increased sensitivity to various triggers, inflammation of the airways, and obstruction. Childhood asthma is increasingly prevalent in underdeveloped nations, with Yemen being a notable example, despite being insufficiently recognized and treated.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate awareness of the Yemeni population for asthma risk factors and the use of medication in private clinics. 

Methods: The study included cross-sectional questionnaires sent to outpatients of private clinics specializing in pulmonary allergies in Sana'a, Yemen. We analyzed the survey findings and developed asthma awareness assessments for various demographic groups.

Results: We have supplied a complete set of 150 questionnaires for the research we conducted. A significant majority of patients (46%) included in the research were aged 15 and above, with females accounting for 53% of the total. Merely 1.3% of the individuals were not of Yemeni origin. 30.7% of the well-educated patients were unable to read or write. The prevalence of current wheezing among non-smokers without a family history of the condition was found to be extremely high. The majority of individuals surveyed reported suffering from allergies. The use of aspirin was the most common among the patients, with the rate of 35.33%, followed by ibuprofen and diclofenac sodium at rates of 6.67% and 9.33%, respectively. Approximately half (50%) of people with asthma experience mild intermittent symptoms and have a preference for using an inhaler (86.7%). Prednisolone pills are used by 56.7% and 48.7% of other people are not.  

Conclusion: According to research, Yemeni patients have a limited understanding of their asthma condition. Furthermore, additional efforts should be made to disseminate bronchial asthma management.