Nepal Family Cohort study: a study protocol

Area of Science:

• Life course epidemiology
• Environmental health
• Pediatric respiratory health

Background:

• Respiratory diseases are rapidly increasing globally, with Nepal experiencing the highest rate of increase.
• Childhood exposure to air pollution and lifestyle factors significantly impacts lung development and function.
• The Nepal Family Cohort study addresses critical environmental and behavioral risk factors affecting child and adult health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the determinants of lung health and other health outcomes from childhood to adulthood in Nepal.
• To assess the impact of household air pollution (HAP) and lifestyle factors on lung development and function.
• To provide evidence-based risk factors and policy recommendations for respiratory and overall health in Nepal.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal, life-course epidemiological approach was used for data collection.
• Baseline data collected from 16,826 participants (9,225 children, 7,601 parents) across diverse geographical areas.
• Linear regression models will analyze associations between HAP, lifestyle factors, and lung function, adjusting for confounders.

Main Results:

• Baseline data collection completed in April 2024, with ongoing follow-ups planned every 2-3 years.
• Analysis will compare demographic characteristics and health outcomes between rural and semi-urban regions.
• Specific focus on evaluating lung development based on household air pollution exposure using a two-stage linear regression model.

Conclusions:

• The Nepal Family Cohort study is poised to yield significant insights into environmental and lifestyle impacts on health.
• Findings will inform targeted public health interventions and policy development to mitigate respiratory disease burden.
• The study's comprehensive approach will offer a holistic view of health trajectories from childhood to adulthood.