Clinico-Epidemiological Profile and Risk Factors of Childhood Asthma in a Tertiary Care Centre in Central India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Childhood asthma is a major public health problem with multifactorial aetiology involving genetic, environmental, and socio-demographic factors. Region-specific data are essential for targeted interventions in India. Material and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted over 14 months in a tertiary care centre in Central India. A total of 112 children aged 6–18 years diagnosed with asthma as per GINA 2025 guidelines were included. Data on demographic characteristics, clinical features, and potential risk factors were collected using a structured proforma. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics. Results: The majority of participants were aged 6–8 years (46.4%), with mean age of 9.06 ± 2.16 years. with a male predominance (63.4%). Family history of asthma/atopy was present in 25% of cases. Allergic rhinitis was the most common comorbidity (17%). Most children were delivered vaginally (83%) and exclusively breastfed (88.4%). Environmental and non-genetic factors appeared to play a significant role in disease occurrence. Conclusion: Childhood asthma in this region shows a higher prevalence among younger males and is influenced by environmental and clinical factors rather than hereditary predisposition alone. Early identification of risk factors can improve disease control and outcomes.

Keywords: Childhood asthma, epidemiology, risk factors, paediatric asthma, Central India.