Family Anxieties in Childhood Asthma

Forty-three asthmatic children and their parents were interviewed to define the level of understanding of the child's asthma and assess the effect that it had on the child and family. Basic misconceptions about the disease and its therapy were apparent. Fears and anxieties about death and permanent damage to heart and lungs were expressed. The disease caused a burden on all members of the family, especially the mother. The child was not able adequately to discuss his asthma with the physician. Treatment should include more time spent with the child and family to relieve many of these anxieties.