[The prevalence of bronchial asthma is increasing and mortality varies].

The authors are presenting a review on the prevalence of bronchial asthma (AB) worldwide and in this country in the child and adult population. The cumulative prevalence of AB in children in Europe is 2.8-19.5%, most frequently 5-10%. The highest prevalence is in Australia (as high as 30%). The cumulative and present prevalence of AB in children doubled in the last ten years. A rise is described in most countries (Scandinavia, Spain, Wales, USA, New Zealand, Australia and Czech Republic). In adults the prevalence of AB is lower, but the rise is similar. The mortality from AB is no longer increasing during the last five years, or is even declining. In the Czech Republic the mortality declined from 2.61/100 000 population to 2.05/100 000 population in 1990-93, in 1994 to 1.58/100 000 population. In 1994 in our country 163 people died from AB.