Prince Edward Island Asthma Trends 2001- 2011

A chronic disease affecting many adults and children in Prince Edward Island (PEI), asthma is the result of hyper-responsive airways leading to chronic airway inflammation and an abnormal narrowing of the airway. The disease is characterized by repeated episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightening, and coughing, often worse at night or in the morning. The reduction in airflow responsible for these symptoms is often improved spontaneously or with treatment.

Across the world, there are an estimated 300 million people affected with asthma. It is the most common chronic disease in children. Monitoring the level of asthma in PEI is fundamental to assessing the trend and understanding the burden of asthma on the population.

The purpose of this document is to provide a picture of asthma in PEI with the intention that policymakers, researchers, health practitioners and the general public can make informed public and personal health decisions.