First results from the international paediatric bronchiectasis registry (Child-BEAR-Net Registry) describing multicountry variations in childhood bronchiectasis and its management: a multicentre, cross-sectional study
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Despite increasing recognition of bronchiectasis worldwide, there are no multicountry data characterising bronchiectasis in children. We aimed to describe clinical features, comparing inter-country and regional variations, and describe indices of overall quality-of-care standards assessed against international consensus statements for children and young people with bronchiectasis.
METHODS
Child-BEAR-Net is an international collaborative paediatric bronchiectasis network across several continents. Using our International Paediatric Bronchiectasis Registry data from secondary and tertiary hospitals across eight countries, we conducted a multicentre, cross-sectional cohort study of all patients in the registry younger than 18 years diagnosed with bronchiectasis. Data were grouped into four geographical regions: Australia, South Africa, Greece-Italy-Spain, and Albania-Türkiye-Ukraine. Patients with cystic fibrosis or a history of heart or lung transplantation were excluded. We assessed baseline clinical characteristics, causes, treatments, and quality-of-care indicators, and compared findings across regions. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests for between-group comparisons.
FINDINGS
Between June 1, 2020, and Feb 9, 2024, 408 patients were enrolled (median age at diagnosis 6·0 years [IQR 3·2-9·0]; 229 (56%) male and 179 (44%) female patients). The most common underlying causes were post-infection (127 [31%]), primary and secondary…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 227 participants or records.
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