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Sensitization to inhaled allergens as a risk factor for asthma and allergic diseases in Chinese population

R Leung1, P Ho, C W Lam

  • 1Department of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong.

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|May 1, 1997
PubMed

Insights

Allergen sensitization is a risk factor for childhood asthma and allergies in Southeast Asia. However, environmental factors, not just genetics, significantly influence disease prevalence across different regions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
  • Environmental Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Allergen sensitization is linked to childhood asthma and allergic diseases.
  • This association requires confirmation in Chinese populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess allergen sensitization and family history of atopy in relation to asthma and allergic disease.
  • To investigate these factors in Chinese schoolchildren across three Southeast Asian locations.

Main Methods:

  • Questionnaires collected data on respiratory and allergic symptoms from 2,206 schoolchildren (ages 12-18) in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and China.
  • Skin prick testing was performed on a subsample to identify sensitization to common inhalant allergens.

Main Results:

  • Asthma and allergic disease prevalence varied significantly by location, highest in Hong Kong and lowest in San Bu, China.
  • Atopic sensitization rates were similar across populations (49-63%), with house dust mites and cockroaches being primary allergens.
  • Mite allergy correlated with rhinitis and asthma; family history strongly predicted allergic symptoms. Place of residence independently predicted asthma and rhinitis prevalence.

Conclusions:

  • Indoor allergen sensitization and family history are risk factors for asthma and allergies.
  • Geographic location (place of residence) is a significant independent factor influencing disease prevalence.
  • Environmental factors likely play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of asthma and allergies in this population.
Abstract

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