[A Meta analysis of risk factors for asthma in Chinese children]

Shu-Jun Liu1, Ting-Ting Wang, Shi-Yu Cao

  • 1Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Xiangya Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China. chenliz@csu.edu.cn.

Insights

Asthma risk in Chinese children is linked to family history, allergies, and environmental factors. Breastfeeding offers protection, while factors like cesarean birth and home environment increase risk.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Environmental Health
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Asthma is a significant respiratory condition in children.
  • Identifying risk factors is crucial for effective prevention and management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the primary risk factors associated with asthma development in Chinese children.
  • To establish a reference for asthma prevention and treatment in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted on 24 case-control studies.
  • Data from studies published up to September 2017 were systematically searched and analyzed.
  • Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 12.0.

Main Results:

  • Key risk factors identified include family history of asthma or allergies, atopic constitution, allergic rhinitis, eczema/dermatitis, food/drug allergies, home mold, indoor flowers, and recent house decoration.
  • Cesarean section was also associated with increased asthma risk.
  • Breastfeeding emerged as a significant protective factor against childhood asthma.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood asthma in China is multifactorial, influenced by genetic predisposition, allergic conditions, and environmental exposures.
  • Family history of asthma/allergy, allergic comorbidities, cesarean birth, and adverse home environments elevate risk.
  • Promoting breastfeeding is recommended to reduce asthma incidence.
Abstract

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