A web-based questionnaire to evaluate risk factors to develop cow milk allergy

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Microbiology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in the development of cow's milk allergy (CMA).
• Disrupted microbiota maturation in the first year of life is common in pediatric food allergies.
• Understanding factors influencing infant microbiota is key for allergy diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate previously identified risk factors associated with microbiota composition in children with CMA.
• To investigate the relationship between environmental and maternal factors and the development of CMA.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional electronic survey was conducted in Turkiye.
• 270 children with CMA and 2154 healthy controls participated.
• A web-based questionnaire collected data on pregnancy, delivery, feeding, antibiotic use, and pet ownership.

Main Results:

• Maternal allergic disorders, maternal weight and weight gain during pregnancy were significant risk factors.
• Antibiotic use (intrapartum and first 6 months), and absence of pets at home were associated with increased CMA risk.
• Maternal age and number of household members showed a protective effect.

Conclusions:

• Parental allergic history, maternal weight, pregnancy weight gain, antibiotic exposure, and pet ownership are microbiota-related risk factors for CMA.
• Targeting microbiota composition may offer strategies for managing CMA development and progression.