Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center found that children with asthma are more likely to have problems with behavior than children without the chronic respiratory problems.

The study is publishec in the journal Pediatrics.

Children with the worst asthma symptoms often have more than one behavior issue, such as being nervous and having trouble focusing on tasks. All of these behavior problems can interfere with learning.

" The stress related to having asthma might contribute to behavioral problems because the family's focus on the medical issue may make managing behavior more difficult. Or, on the other hand, behavior problems may make managing asthma symptoms more difficult," said lead author Jill Halterman, at Golisano Children's Hospital at Strong.

Halterman, who conducted her study with the help of the Rochester-based Children's Institute, said that while it is difficult to determine if the asthma or the behavior trouble came first, it is apparent that both must be addressed when treating the child.

Parents of 1,619 children were surveyed about their children's asthma symptoms and several different behaviors ( makes friends easily, fights with other children, concentrates well, is withdrawn ).

Because the children in the study had not yet begun their formal schooling, and since behavior problems can impact academic achievement and adjustment, identification and treatment of problems at this young age could prevent school difficulties down the road.

" Parents of children with asthma should watch for problems in their child's behavior. Sure, kids are going to get into little tiffs, but if behavior problems become commonplace, parents should set appropriate limits and possibly ask for help from school counselors, teachers or their pediatrician," Halterman said.

Source: University of Rochester Medical Center, 2006


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