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Indoor exposures and recurrent wheezing in infants: a study in the BAMSE cohort

G Emenius1, M Svartengren, J Korsgaard

  • 1Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Stockholm County Council, Sweden. gunnel.emenius@smd.sll.se

Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|August 12, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Indoor dampness and newly painted surfaces are linked to recurrent infant wheezing. Multiple dampness indicators significantly increase the risk, suggesting combined indoor exposures worsen outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Pediatric Respiratory Medicine
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Recurrent wheezing in infancy is a significant health concern.
  • Indoor environmental factors are suspected contributors to infant respiratory illnesses.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between indoor environmental exposures and the development of recurrent wheezing in infants.
  • To determine the impact of dampness and recently painted surfaces on infant respiratory health.

Main Methods:

  • A birth cohort of 4089 children was followed.
  • A nested case-control study involved 181 infants with recurrent wheezing and 359 controls.
  • Home inspections assessed indoor conditions, including dampness and paint status.

Main Results:

  • Parent-reported and observed dampness were associated with increased odds of recurrent infant wheezing (OR 1.4-1.6).
  • A dose-response relationship was observed, with three or more signs of dampness increasing the risk (OR 2.7).
  • Newly painted surfaces in the bedroom were linked to a higher risk of recurrent wheezing (OR 1.7).

Conclusions:

  • Indoor dampness indicators are associated with recurrent infant wheezing.
  • Recently repainted interior surfaces may also contribute to infant wheezing.
  • Combined indoor exposures appear to strengthen the risk of recurrent wheezing in infants.
Abstract

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