Asthma has greater impact on Canadian children according to research presented at the 76th annual meeting of the American College of Chest Physicians. Canadian children with asthma were more likely to feel left out, sad, and different from their peers. They also felt unable to participate in sports in greater numbers compared to children in other countries.
"There has been recent research showing that all children with chronic disease are at increased risk of bullying and social exclusion," said lead researcher William Carroll, MD, in a press release. "Our study is important because it allows us insight into the lives of so many children with asthma from around the world."
"The data suggest that Canadian children with asthma may be missing out on being involved in sports because they feel excluded," said Dr. Carroll. "It's also possible that sports involving cold air, such as ice hockey, which is popular in Canada, are more difficult for those with asthma."
Additionally, 10% of children worldwide with asthma felt they were bullied because of their disease. Dr. Carroll went on to say "Better social integration and sports participation can only be achieved by educating teachers, classmates, parents, and coaches."
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