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Published on: August 7, 2017

Gender-specific differences in the prevention of asthma-like symptoms in high-risk infants

Tiny van Merode1, Tanja Maas, Mascha Twellaar

  • 1Department of General Practice, Research Institute CAPHRI, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. tiny.vanmerode@hag.unimaas.nl

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology : Official Publication of the European Society of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
|April 17, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Asthma prevention strategies may differ by gender in high-risk children. Breastfeeding boys longer significantly reduced asthma-like symptoms, unlike in girls, highlighting sex as a key factor.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
  • Environmental Health
  • Genetics and Epidemiology

Background:

  • Childhood asthma prevalence is rising, with emerging evidence suggesting gender-specific development patterns.
  • Familial predisposition is a significant risk factor for pediatric asthma.
  • Understanding gender differences in asthma development is crucial for targeted prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate gender-specific differences in asthma development among high-risk infants (0-2 years).
  • To assess the impact of allergen and environmental exposure reduction strategies on asthma-like symptoms in relation to gender.
  • To explore the role of breastfeeding duration as a potential gender-specific protective factor.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 222 high-risk children (118 boys, 104 girls) with familial asthma history was studied.
  • Standardized recommendations for allergen (dust mite, pets, food) and passive smoking exposure reduction were provided.
  • Multiple regression analyses were used to evaluate health outcomes (wheezing, shortness of breath) and compliance with interventions, considering gender.

Main Results:

  • Boys exhibited higher rates of asthma-like complaints (32%) compared to girls (18%, p=0.023).
  • Breastfeeding duration was significantly longer in girls (median 9 wk vs. 4 wk, p=0.009).
  • Extended breastfeeding (4 weeks) reduced wheezing and shortness of breath by 19% and 15% in boys, but not girls, indicating sex as an effect modifier.

Conclusions:

  • Asthma prevention strategies may need gender-specific tailoring in high-risk pediatric populations.
  • Breastfeeding appears particularly beneficial for reducing asthma-like symptoms in boys.
  • These findings underscore the importance of considering sex in pediatric asthma research and intervention.

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