Pediatric Respiratory Diseases and Disorders
Due to their rising prevalence and severity around the world, acute and chronic respiratory disorders are becoming a global public health issue. This is due to several factors, including (i) an increase in the prevalence of early allergen sensitization in children; (ii) the frequent recurrence of viral infections commonly associated with children; and (iii) the increased survival of extremely preterm and fragile children born with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. All of these factors enhance the likelihood of acute symptoms becoming chronic. In addition, lung function deteriorates over time, resulting in the development of chronic respiratory disorders in adulthood. About 25% of all pediatric consultations are for respiratory illnesses, with asthma accounting for 10% of them. Bronchitis, acute bronchitis, and respiratory infections are the other major pediatric respiratory illnesses in terms of occurrence.
