Risk Factors Associated with Childhood Asthma - A Case Control Study

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Epidemiology
• Allergology

Background:

• Asthma is a prevalent chronic childhood illness, with rising rates in low-income nations.
• Understanding early-life risk factors is crucial for effective asthma intervention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key risk factors for childhood asthma.
• To investigate patterns in childhood asthma morbidity.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study conducted at Dhulikhel Hospital from March 2016 to March 2017.
• Involved 175 age-matched controls with non-pulmonary issues.
• Analyzed genetic and environmental factors using univariant and logistic regression.

Main Results:

• Childhood asthma was more prevalent in males aged 1-5 years.
• Mild persistent asthma affected 44% of children.
• Significant risk factors included family history of asthma (OR 0.06), non-exclusive breastfeeding (OR 18.42), and allergic disorders (OR 0.003).

Conclusions:

• Family history of asthma, personal allergic history, and non-exclusive breastfeeding are significantly linked to childhood asthma.
• No significant association found between asthma and exposure to allergens, smoke, or domestic animals.