An assessment of asthmatic knowledge of school teachers.

A group of 69 teachers in two high schools in Holon were asked to fill out questionnaires measuring their general knowledge about asthma as well as their specific awareness of the asthmatic pupils in their class. The source of their knowledge comes from reading popular articles in newspapers and periodicals as well as popular scientific books (43.5%); and later from discussions with physicians and nurses (15.5%). The knowledge of the class teachers was compared with that of various single subject teachers. The importance of the teachers' knowledge is emphasized as well as its effect upon the pupils. Practical ways to increase that knowledge are suggested and discussed.