INTRODUCTION
The most common chronic respiratory disorder of childhood is Asthma . It
is characterized by airway hyper responsiveness with airway
inflammation. Asthma is more common in children (8.6 %) than adults
(7.4 %). (1) . Allergic rhinitis, Atopic dermatitis , food or inhalant
allergy ,family history of asthma, is common risk factors for persistent
asthma. (1). Atopy is the alone largest risk factor for development of
asthma. Nearly 80% of atopic individuals develop asthma, allergic
rhinitis, eczema or urticarial. (2). Atopy has been associated with
increased risk of persistent and severe asthma as shown in several
studies. Allergen provocation can induce bronchial inflammation.
Children who developed early sensitization to food or aero antigen and
had eczema are at high risk for developing persistent asthma. (3)Asthma
is a global health care problem, with increasing prevalence being
observed over last few decades. (1). Prevalence of asthma in developing
countries is significantly different from developed countries. In India,
prevalence varies widely due to the vast size of the country, variable
population density, variable climate, variable pollution levels and
variable life style. (4)ISAAC, largest study determining prevalence of
asthma had showed prevalence of asthma in Pune of 2.9% in 2003 (5). In
recent study of 2012, study conducted in Pune suggested an increase in
prevalence of asthma from 2.9% to 6.7%. (4.) This study defined asthma
from history provided in questionnaire and no clinical examination was
done to confirm the diagnosis. To substantiate this observation after
confirming the diagnosis with examination, this study was planned. PEFR
was performed as a marker of lung function.