Gestational age and the risk of allergic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Xuanli Zhao1, Ke Liu1, Jiaxin Chen1

  • 1School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.

Pediatric Research
|September 27, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Early and full preterm births reduce the risk of atopic dermatitis (AD). Post-term birth increases AD risk, while early preterm birth may lower allergic rhinitis (AR) risk. Gestational age impacts allergy development.

Area of Science:

  • Perinatal medicine
  • Allergology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • The perinatal period is a critical window for preventing atopic disorders.
  • Gestational age is increasingly recognized as a factor influencing allergic disease development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between gestational age and the risk of atopic dermatitis (AD) and allergic rhinitis (AR).
  • To provide evidence for allergy risk stratification and prevention strategies.

Main Methods:

  • A meta-analysis of observational studies was conducted, searching PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science until December 31, 2023.
  • Included 30 studies with over 5.4 million participants.
  • Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to ensure robustness.

Main Results:

  • Early preterm birth (OR: 0.75) and preterm birth (OR: 0.86) were associated with reduced AD risk.
  • Post-term birth was linked to an increased AD risk (OR: 1.08).
  • Early preterm birth showed a suggestive association with reduced allergic rhinitis risk (OR: 0.84).

Conclusions:

  • Early and full preterm births are associated with a significantly lower risk of atopic dermatitis.
  • Post-term birth is linked to a higher risk of atopic dermatitis.
  • Gestational age plays a nuanced role in allergic disease development, emphasizing the perinatal period for prevention.
Abstract

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