1
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Antonogeorgos G, Liakou E, Koutsokera A, Drakontaeidis P, Thanasia M, Mandrapylia M, Fouzas S, Ellwood P, García-Marcos L, Panagiotakos DB, Priftis KN, Douros K. Parental education moderates the association between indoor moisture environment and asthma in adolescents: the Greek Global Asthma Network (GAN) cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:597. [PMID: 35346139 PMCID: PMC8962010 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13065-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Asthma is a major contributor to childhood morbidity. Several environmental and socioeconomic status (SES) factors have been implicated in its etiopathogeneses such as indoor moisture and parental education level. Our study examined the association between exposure to indoor dampness and/or mould (IDM) with adolescent asthma and how parental education could modify or mediate this relationship. Method A total of 1934 adolescents (boys: 47.5%, mean age (standard variation): 12.7(0.6) years) and their parents were voluntarily enrolled and completed a validated questionnaire on adolescents’ asthma status, parental educational level, and adolescents’ indoor exposure to IDM during three different lifetime periods, i.e., pregnancy, the first year of life and the current time. Results There was a significant modification effect of parental education only for the current exposure; higher parental education lowered almost 50% the odds of IDM and asthma (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.96, 95% Confidence Intervals (CI): (1.05–3.68) and aOR:1.55, 95% CI (1.04–2.32), for primary/secondary and tertiary parental education, respectively). Conclusion Adolescents whose parents had a higher education level had lesser odds to have asthma, even if they were exposed to a moisture home environment. This could be attributed to the increased knowledge about asthma risk factors and the improved measures for the amelioration of moisture-home environment that highly educated parents are more likely to take. Further research is needed in order to elucidate the interweaved role of family SES in the aforementioned relation.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Antonogeorgos
- Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, 3Rd Paediatric Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462, Athens, Greece.,Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences and Education, Harokopio University, 17676, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia Liakou
- Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, 3Rd Paediatric Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandra Koutsokera
- Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, 3Rd Paediatric Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Pavlos Drakontaeidis
- Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, 3Rd Paediatric Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Marina Thanasia
- Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, 3Rd Paediatric Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Mandrapylia
- Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, 3Rd Paediatric Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotirios Fouzas
- Division of Paediatrics & Obstetrics - Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Philippa Ellwood
- Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Luis García-Marcos
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Units, 'Virgen de La Arrixaca' University Children's Hospital, University of Murcia, ARADyAL Network and Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), 30394, Murcia, Spain
| | - Demosthenes B Panagiotakos
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences and Education, Harokopio University, 17676, Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas N Priftis
- Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, 3Rd Paediatric Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Douros
- Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, 3Rd Paediatric Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462, Athens, Greece.
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2
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Xue M, Dehaas E, Chaudhary N, O'Byrne P, Satia I, Kurmi OP. Breastfeeding and risk of childhood asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. ERJ Open Res 2021; 7:00504-2021. [PMID: 34912884 PMCID: PMC8666625 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00504-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the relationship between breastfeeding and the development of paediatric asthma. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted with MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health source databases. Retrospective/prospective cohorts in children aged <18 years with breastfeeding exposure reported were included. The primary outcome was a diagnosis of asthma by a physician or using a guideline-based criterion. A secondary outcome was asthma severity. Results 42 studies met inclusion criteria. 37 studies reported the primary outcome of physician-/guideline-diagnosed asthma, and five studies reported effects on asthma severity. Children with longer duration/more breastfeeding compared to shorter duration/less breastfeeding have a lower risk of asthma (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.75–0.93; I2 = 62.4%). Similarly, a lower risk of asthma was found in children who had more exclusive breastfeeding versus less exclusive breastfeeding (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.72–0.91; I2=44%). Further stratified analysis of different age groups demonstrated a lower risk of asthma in the 0–2-years age group (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.63–0.83) and the 3–6-years age group (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.55–0.87); there was no statistically significant effect on the ≥7-years age group. Conclusion The findings suggest that the duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding are associated with a lower risk of asthma in children aged <7 years. The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies suggest that duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding are associated with a lower risk of asthma in children aged <7 yearshttps://bit.ly/3p804PG
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Xue
- Dept of Family Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Emily Dehaas
- Dept of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nagendra Chaudhary
- Dept of Pediatrics, Universal College of Medical Sciences, Bhairahawa, Nepal
| | - Paul O'Byrne
- Dept of Medicine, Division of Respirology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Imran Satia
- Dept of Medicine, Division of Respirology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Om P Kurmi
- Dept of Medicine, Division of Respirology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Canada.,Faculty Centre for Intelligent Healthcare, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
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3
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Sdona E, Ekström S, Andersson N, Hallberg J, Rautiainen S, Håkansson N, Wolk A, Kull I, Melén E, Bergström A. Fruit, vegetable and dietary antioxidant intake in school age, respiratory health up to young adulthood. Clin Exp Allergy 2021; 52:104-114. [PMID: 34549838 DOI: 10.1111/cea.14020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary antioxidants may protect the lung against oxidative damage and prevent chronic respiratory disease. We aimed to investigate fruit, vegetable and antioxidant intake (measured as total antioxidant capacity, TAC) at age 8 years in relation to asthma and lung function up to 24 years. METHODS In this study of 2506 participants from a Swedish birth cohort, diet was assessed using food frequency questionnaires. Information on asthma was collected by questionnaires, and lung function was measured by spirometry at ages 8, 16 and 24 years. Generalized estimating equations and mixed effect models were used to assess overall, age- and sex-specific associations. RESULTS After adjustment for confounders, a higher fruit intake at age 8 years was associated with a tendency to reduced odds of prevalent asthma (T3 vs. T1, OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.60-1.01, p-trend .083), with reduced odds of incident asthma and increased odds of remittent asthma (≥median, OR 0.76; 95% CI 0.58-0.99 and OR 1.60; 95% CI 1.05-2.42, respectively) up to 24 years. Comparable, but non-significant, odds ratios were observed in analyses of long-term fruit intake (mean intake at ages 8 and 16 years). In contrast, no association was observed with vegetable intake. A higher dietary TAC (T3 vs. T1) at 8 years was associated with reduced odds of prevalent asthma (OR 0.73; 95% CI 0.58-0.93, p-trend .010) and improved lung function development (FEV1 -z +0.11; 95% CI 0.01-0.21, p-trend .036 and FVC-z +0.09; 95% CI -0.01-0.20, p-trend .072) up to 24 years. Associations were more pronounced among males, and regarding asthma, participants sensitized to aeroallergens. CONCLUSIONS Antioxidant intake in school age may improve asthma and lung function up to young adulthood. Although our results should be interpreted with caution, they emphasize the importance of following current dietary guidelines regarding consumption of antioxidant-rich foods as part of a balanced diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanouela Sdona
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sandra Ekström
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Niklas Andersson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jenny Hallberg
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Sachs' Children and Youth Hospital, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanne Rautiainen
- Global and Sexual Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Division of Preventive Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Astrid Lindgrens Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Niclas Håkansson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alicja Wolk
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Inger Kull
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Sachs' Children and Youth Hospital, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erik Melén
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Sachs' Children and Youth Hospital, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Bergström
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
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Lawrence WR, Lin S, Lin Z, Gurram N, Neamtiu IA, Csobod E, Gurzau E. Interactions between dietary habits and home environmental exposures on respiratory symptoms in Romanian school children: an analysis of data from the SINPHONIE project. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:2647-2657. [PMID: 31836974 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-07129-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the interactions between household pollutants and dietary habits on children's respiratory health. Our cross-sectional study collected self-reported information including health symptoms (allergy-like, asthma-like, and flu-like symptoms), home characteristics, dietary habits, and demographic information from questionnaires administered to parents of 280 school children in Romania. Unconditional logistic regression and stratified analyses were used to assess the interactions between dietary factors and environmental exposures on health symptoms among children, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and co-exposures. We found that frequency of fruit consumption had significant interaction with residing near heavy traffic on allergy-like symptoms among children (p = 0.036). However, no association was observed by frequency of fruit consumption. Although no significant interaction was observed, we found that students with infrequent fruit consumption and residing near heavy traffic roads had elevated odds of asthma-like (POR 6.37; 95% CI 1.22, 33.29) and flu-like symptoms (POR 3.75; 95% CI 1.12, 11.86) than those who frequently consumed fruits. Likewise, low vegetable consumption was associated with increased asthma-like symptoms (POR 2.93; 95% CI 1.04, 8.24). Increased odds of asthma-like symptoms were observed among school children that resided near heavy traffic roads and frequently consumed milk (POR 2.80; 95% CI 1.24, 6.31) and yoghurt (POR 2.86; 95% CI 1.05, 7.75) compared to those that infrequently consumed dairy. Our findings suggest that frequent fruit and vegetable consumption may mitigate the negative effects of exposure to heavy traffic near dwelling on respiratory symptoms in Romanian children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne R Lawrence
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Shao Lin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Ziqiang Lin
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Namratha Gurram
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Iulia A Neamtiu
- Health Department, Environmental Health Center, 58 Busuiocului Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, 30 Fantanele Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Eva Csobod
- Regional Environmental Center for Central and Eastern Europe (REC), Ady Endre ut 9-11, Szentendre, 2000, Hungary
| | - Eugen Gurzau
- Health Department, Environmental Health Center, 58 Busuiocului Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, 30 Fantanele Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Cluj School of Public Health, College of Political, Administrative and Communication Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, 7 Pandurilor Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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5
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Carpaij OA, Burgess JK, Kerstjens HAM, Nawijn MC, van den Berge M. A review on the pathophysiology of asthma remission. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 201:8-24. [PMID: 31075356 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2019.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition, which is highly prevalent worldwide. Although no cure is currently available, it is well recognized that some asthma patients can spontaneously enter remission of the disease later in life. Asthma remission is characterized by absence of symptoms and lack of asthma-medication use. Subjects in asthma remission can be divided into two groups: those in clinical remission and those in complete remission. In clinical asthma remission, subjects still have a degree of lung functional impairment or bronchial hyperresponsiveness, while in complete asthma remission, these features are no longer present. Over longer periods, the latter group is less likely to relapse. This remission group is of great scientific interest due to the higher potential to find biomarkers or biological pathways that elicit or are associated with asthma remission. Despite the fact that the definition of asthma remission varies between studies, some factors are reproducibly observed to be associated with remitted asthma. Among these are lower levels of inflammatory markers, which are lowest in complete remission. Additionally, in both groups some degree of airway remodeling is present. Still, the pathological disease state of asthma remission has been poorly investigated. Future research should focus on at least two aspects: further characterisation of the small airways and airway walls in order to determine histologically true remission, and more thorough biological pathway analyses to explore triggers that elicit this phenomenon. Ultimately, this will result in pharmacological targets that provide the potential to steer the course of asthma towards remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orestes A Carpaij
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonology, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Janette K Burgess
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Huib A M Kerstjens
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Martijn C Nawijn
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten van den Berge
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonology, Groningen, the Netherlands
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6
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Hosseini B, Berthon BS, Wark P, Wood LG. Effects of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption on Risk of Asthma, Wheezing and Immune Responses: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2017; 9:nu9040341. [PMID: 28353635 PMCID: PMC5409680 DOI: 10.3390/nu9040341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that reduced intake of fruit and vegetables may play a critical role in the development of asthma and allergies. The present review aimed to summarize the evidence for the association between fruit and vegetable intake, risk of asthma/wheeze and immune responses. Databases including PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL and EMBASE were searched up to June 2016. Studies that investigated the effects of fruit and vegetable intake on risk of asthma/wheeze and immune responses were considered eligible (n = 58). Studies used cross-sectional (n = 30), cohort (n = 13), case-control (n = 8) and experimental (n = 7) designs. Most of the studies (n = 30) reported beneficial associations of fruit and vegetable consumption with risk of asthma and/or respiratory function, while eight studies found no significant relationship. Some studies (n = 20) reported mixed results, as they found a negative association between fruit only or vegetable only, and asthma. In addition, the meta-analyses in both adults and children showed inverse associations between fruit intake and risk of prevalent wheeze and asthma severity (p < 0.05). Likewise, vegetable intake was negatively associated with risk of prevalent asthma (p < 0.05). Seven studies examined immune responses in relation to fruit and vegetable intake in asthma, with n = 6 showing a protective effect against either systemic or airway inflammation. Fruit and vegetable consumption appears to be protective against asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banafshe Hosseini
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia.
- Centre for Healthy Lungs, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle NSW 2308, Australia.
| | - Bronwyn S Berthon
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia.
- Centre for Healthy Lungs, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle NSW 2308, Australia.
| | - Peter Wark
- Centre for Healthy Lungs, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle NSW 2308, Australia.
| | - Lisa G Wood
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308, Australia.
- Centre for Healthy Lungs, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle NSW 2308, Australia.
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7
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Mastora A, Vadiakas G, Agouropoulos A, Gartagani-Panagiotopoulou P, Gemou Engesaeth V. Developmental defects of enamel in first permanent molars associated with use of asthma drugs in preschool aged children: A retrospective case-control study. Eur Arch Paediatr Dent 2017; 18:105-111. [PMID: 28255932 DOI: 10.1007/s40368-017-0280-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/18/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the association between the occurrences of developmental defects of enamel (DDE), in first permanent molars, and bronchodilators and/or corticosteroid intake for asthma-like episodic treatment at preschool age, in 6-12 year old children. METHODS Children of the case group (n = 70) were followed in the Paediatric Pulmonary Unit and the Unit of Allergology, Asthma and Inflammation at 'Aghia Sofia' Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece and had used asthma drugs during their first 4 years of life. The control group (n = 70) consisted of healthy children who visited the Postgraduate Paediatric Dental Clinic, University of Athens. Information regarding demographic data, medical history, pregnancy, birth weight, duration of breastfeeding, mother's smoking habits and antibiotic use at preschool age was obtained through a structured questionnaire. Details concerning asthma drugs used were extracted from medical records. The children in both groups underwent an oral examination under standard clinical conditions and all surfaces of first permanent molars were assessed for enamel defects using the modified DDE Index. Chi square statistics, Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman correlation coefficient and logistic regression analysis were used for statistical analysis of the data (p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS DDE were present in 24 children (34.3%) in the case group and only in 6 (8.6%) in the control, with the difference between the two groups being statistically significant (p < 0.001), while the estimated odds ratio was 5.56. Among the children with DDE in the case group, 41.6% had at least one hypoplastic molar with loss of enamel. The type of asthma drug, age at treatment onset and duration of drug use were not significantly associated with the severity or extent of DDE. Among the possible influential factors, gender was the only statistical significant factor. CONCLUSIONS Children treated with asthma drugs for asthma-like episodes at a preschool age showed an overall increased risk for developing enamel defects in their first permanent molars. Severe hypoplastic lesions with loss of enamel was a frequent finding among affected molars.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mastora
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Dental School, University of Athens, 2 Thivon Street, Athens, Greece.
| | - G Vadiakas
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Dental School, University of Athens, 2 Thivon Street, Athens, Greece
| | - A Agouropoulos
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Dental School, University of Athens, 2 Thivon Street, Athens, Greece
| | | | - V Gemou Engesaeth
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Dental School, University of Athens, 2 Thivon Street, Athens, Greece
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8
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Papadopoulou A, Panagiotakos D, Hatziagorou E, Antonogeorgos G, Matziou V, Tsanakas J, Gratziou C, Tsabouri S, Priftis K. Antioxidant foods consumption and childhood asthma and other allergic diseases: The Greek cohorts of the ISAAC II survey. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2015; 43:353-60. [PMID: 25097022 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2013] [Revised: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antioxidant intake changes have been implicated with the increase in asthma and allergies outcomes, but no clear association has been revealed. In this cross sectional study, the overall effect of antioxidants on asthma and allergic diseases was studied. METHODS Data from the cohorts of the phase II ISAAC survey (2023 children 9-10 years old) in two metropolitan Greek cities were analysed. Using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, an Antioxidant Eating Index (AEI, range 0-6) was created with the pro-antioxidant (vegetables, fruits, fresh juice, fish) and the non-antioxidant (meat, burgers) food intake and was evaluated with allergic diseases. Higher values of the score suggest closer to an "antioxidant" and lesser to a "saturated fatty" diet. RESULTS Prevalence of lifetime and current asthma, current rhinitis and sensitisation were higher in Thessaloniki compared to Athens. The AEI score of the entire cohort was 4.2 ± 1.2 (median 4.0) and was higher in Athens compared to Thessaloniki (4.3 ± 1.2 vs. 4.0 ± 1.2, p=0.001) and in girls than boys (4.3 ± 1.1 vs. 4.0 ± 1.2, p=0.001). AEI was inversely associated with lifetime asthma (OR: 0.87, 95%CI 0.77, 0.99) in either cities independently of other cofounders such as family history, sensitisation, exercise, house smoking, breast feeding, pet or dampness in houses. No association with other allergic disease or sensitisation was detected. CONCLUSION Antioxidant foods seem to be a non-pharmacological, protective dietary pattern for asthma development in children irrespectively of atopy or heredity; AEI was a rough indicator and the role of antioxidants in allergic diseases is still under consideration.
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9
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Silvestri M, Franchi S, Pistorio A, Petecchia L, Rusconi F. Smoke exposure, wheezing, and asthma development: a systematic review and meta-analysis in unselected birth cohorts. Pediatr Pulmonol 2015; 50:353-62. [PMID: 24648197 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.23037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2012] [Accepted: 02/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The understanding of the role of smoking exposure in the induction of wheezing and asthma in children is important for prevention. METHODS A systematic review of literature and a meta-analysis were conducted to identify studies on unselected prospective birth cohorts. The effect of exposure to maternal/parental smoking on the induction of current wheezing or asthma was evaluated in children aged 6 months, <6 years, and ≥6 years. Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. RESULTS We identified 43 papers. Exposure to maternal prenatal smoking was associated with an increased risk of wheezing in <6-year-olds (OR 1.36; 95% CI: 1.19-1.55) and of wheezing or asthma in ≥6-year-olds (OR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.03-1.44). A positive association (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.11-1.38) was also found in the only three studies that evaluated exposure to maternal prenatal smoking alone. Postnatal exposures to maternal/parental smoking were associated with wheezing in <6-year-olds (OR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.13-1.31 and OR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.13-1.51), although it was often impossible to separate the role of postnatal from that of prenatal exposure; data in schoolchildren are limited and this precluded a meta-analysis. No clear association was found between exclusive postnatal exposure and wheezing or asthma. CONCLUSIONS We confirmed an important role of prenatal exposure to maternal smoking on the induction of wheezing and asthma in offspring, particularly in the first years of life. More studies with a consistent number of subjects only exposed to smoke postnatally are needed to better investigate the harmful effects on the induction of wheezing or asthma, particularly in schoolchildren.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Silvestri
- Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy Unit, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
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10
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Seyedrezazadeh E, Moghaddam MP, Ansarin K, Vafa MR, Sharma S, Kolahdooz F. Fruit and vegetable intake and risk of wheezing and asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Rev 2014; 72:411-28. [PMID: 24947126 DOI: 10.1111/nure.12121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Major bibliographic databases were searched for studies examining the relationship between fruit and vegetable consumption and the risk of wheezing and asthma. Random-effects models were used to pool study results. Subgroup analyses were conducted by fruit and vegetable categories, study design, and age group. Twelve cohorts, 4 population-based case-control studies, and 26 cross-sectional studies published between January 1990 and July 2013 were identified. For the meta-analysis of adults and children, the relative risk (RR) and confidence intervals (CI) when comparing the highest intake group with the lowest intake group were 0.78 (95%CI, 0.70-0.87) for fruit and 0.86 (95%CI, 0.75-0.98) for vegetables. High intake of fruit and vegetables (RR = 0.76; 95%CI, 0.68-0.86 and RR = 0.83; 95%CI, 0.72-0.96) reduced the risk of childhood wheezing. Total intake of fruit and vegetables had a negative association with risk of asthma in adults and children (RR = 0.54; 95%CI, 0.41-0.69). Consuming fruit and vegetables during pregnancy had no association with the risk of asthma in offspring. High intake of fruit and vegetables may reduce the risk of asthma and wheezing in adults and children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ensiyeh Seyedrezazadeh
- Tuberculosis and Lung Research Disease Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Dogaru CM, Nyffenegger D, Pescatore AM, Spycher BD, Kuehni CE. Breastfeeding and childhood asthma: systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Epidemiol 2014; 179:1153-67. [PMID: 24727807 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwu072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma and wheezing disorders are common chronic health problems in childhood. Breastfeeding provides health benefits, but it is not known whether or how breastfeeding decreases the risk of developing asthma. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published between 1983 and 2012 on breastfeeding and asthma in children from the general population. We searched the PubMed and Embase databases for cohort, cross-sectional, and case-control studies. We grouped the outcomes into asthma ever, recent asthma, or recent wheezing illness (recent asthma or recent wheeze). Using random-effects meta-analyses, we estimated pooled odds ratios of the association of breastfeeding with the risk for each of these outcomes. We performed meta-regression and stratified meta-analyses. We included 117 of 1,464 titles identified by our search. The pooled odds ratios were 0.78 (95% confidence interval: 0.74, 0.84) for 75 studies analyzing "asthma ever," 0.76 (95% confidence interval: 0.67, 0.86) for 46 studies analyzing "recent asthma," and 0.81 (95% confidence interval: 0.76, 0.87) for 94 studies analyzing recent wheezing illness. After stratification by age, the strong protective association found at ages 0-2 years diminished over time. We found no evidence for differences by study design or study quality or between studies in Western and non-Western countries. A positive association of breastfeeding with reduced asthma/wheezing is supported by the combined evidence of existing studies.
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Saadeh D, Salameh P, Baldi I, Raherison C. Diet and allergic diseases among population aged 0 to 18 years: myth or reality? Nutrients 2013; 5:3399-423. [PMID: 23995043 PMCID: PMC3798911 DOI: 10.3390/nu5093399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2013] [Revised: 08/06/2013] [Accepted: 08/07/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergic diseases are an important health problem. However, epidemiological studies concerning childhood diet-related allergic diseases are scarce. This review examines published articles dealing with diet, dietary patterns and nutrition in relation with allergic diseases among population aged 0 to 18 years. Studies and trials were identified using MEDLINE/PubMed and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and were limited to those published in English or French from 1992 until 2012. This manuscript also reviews the evidence for maternal diet during pregnancy and diet during early childhood and their association with childhood atopic diseases, taking into account the methodology used to evaluate dietary patterns. The evidence reviewed is derived from large epidemiological studies exploring the effects of different food categories on asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis in children. Overall, maternal diet during pregnancy and a childhood diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids are considered as healthy diets that could be protective for allergic diseases in childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Saadeh
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573-14, Lebanon; E-Mail:
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +961-70-904-307; Fax: +961-5-463-312
| | - Pascale Salameh
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573-14, Lebanon; E-Mail:
| | - Isabelle Baldi
- Laboratory “Santé Travail Environnement”, INSERM U897, Institute of Public Health, Epidemiology and Development, University Bordeaux Segalen, Bordeaux 33076, France; E-Mails: (I.B.); (C.R.)
| | - Chantal Raherison
- Laboratory “Santé Travail Environnement”, INSERM U897, Institute of Public Health, Epidemiology and Development, University Bordeaux Segalen, Bordeaux 33076, France; E-Mails: (I.B.); (C.R.)
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, Bordeaux University Hospital, Magellan Avenue, Pessac 33604, France
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The presence of asthma, the use of inhaled steroids, and parental education level affect school performance in children. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:762805. [PMID: 23936846 PMCID: PMC3722977 DOI: 10.1155/2013/762805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective. Childhood asthma is a frequent cause of absenteeism that affects school performance. We aimed to investigate the impact of asthma on absenteeism and school performance level of elementary and high school students. Methods. Data about sociodemographics, absenteeism, and academic achievement were obtained from 1539 students attending 98 schools in Greece. School performance was assessed for the last two years of school attendance using parents' and teachers' reports and grade point average promotion. Results. The mean of the days of absence of students with asthma was higher compared to the healthy students (6.2 ± 11.7 versus 0.3 ± 3.1, resp., P < 0.001). Students with reduced healthcare use presented less absenteeism than those with increased healthcare use for asthma (4.3 ± 8.6 versus 12.4 ± 17.0 days, resp., P < 0.001). Asthma and healthcare use for asthma accounted for an overall estimated variability in absence days of 13.8% and 9%, respectively. Absenteeism was associated with poor school performance for the last two years of school (P = 0.002) and with lower grade point promotion in elementary school students (P = 0.001) but not in high school students (P = 0.316). Higher level of parental education was associated with better school performance (P < 0.001). Asthma was associated with a decreased possibility for excellent performance (OR = 0.64, P = 0.049, 95%CI = 0.41–1.00) in elementary students. Students with asthma using inhalers were four times more likely to perform excellently in elementary school (OR = 4.3, P = 0.028, 95%CI = 1.17–15.95) than their asthmatic peers with alternative asthma treatments. Conclusions. Asthma and increased healthcare use enhance school absenteeism. Inhaled steroid use and the higher parental education level were the most important predicting factors for good school performance in elementary school asthmatic children.
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An intelligent system approach for asthma prediction in symptomatic preschool children. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2013; 2013:240182. [PMID: 23573166 PMCID: PMC3612481 DOI: 10.1155/2013/240182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2012] [Accepted: 02/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Objectives. In this study a new method for asthma outcome prediction, which is based on Principal Component Analysis and Least Square Support Vector Machine Classifier, is presented. Most of the asthma cases appear during the first years of life. Thus, the early identification of young children being at high risk of developing persistent symptoms of the disease throughout childhood is an important public health priority. Methods. The proposed intelligent system consists of three stages. At the first stage, Principal Component Analysis is used for feature extraction and dimension reduction. At the second stage, the pattern classification is achieved by using Least Square Support Vector Machine Classifier. Finally, at the third stage the performance evaluation of the system is estimated by using classification accuracy and 10-fold cross-validation. Results. The proposed prediction system can be used in asthma outcome prediction with 95.54 % success as shown in the experimental results. Conclusions. This study indicates that the proposed system is a potentially useful decision support tool for predicting asthma outcome and that some risk factors enhance its predictive ability.
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Protudjer JLP, Sevenhuysen GP, Ramsey CD, Kozyrskyj AL, Becker AB. Low vegetable intake is associated with allergic asthma and moderate-to-severe airway hyperresponsiveness. Pediatr Pulmonol 2012; 47:1159-69. [PMID: 22628152 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.22576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2011] [Revised: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 03/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent decades, children's diet quality has changed and asthma prevalence has increased, although it remains unclear if these events are associated. OBJECTIVE To examine children's total and component diet quality and asthma and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), a proxy for asthma severity. METHODS Food frequency questionnaires adapted from the Nurses' Health Study and supplemented with foods whose nutrients which have garnered interest of late in relation to asthma were administered. From these data, diet quality scores (total and component), based on the Youth Healthy Eating Index (YHEI adapted) were developed. Asthma assessments were performed by pediatric allergists and classified by atopic status: Allergic asthma (≥1 positive skin prick test to common allergens >3 mm compared to negative control) versus non-allergic asthma (negative skin prick test). AHR was assessed via the Cockcroft technique. Participants included 270 boys (30% with asthma) and 206 girls (33% with asthma) involved in the 1995 Manitoba Prospective Cohort Study nested case-control study. Logistic regression was used to examine associations between diet quality and asthma, and multinomial logistic regression was used to examine associations between diet quality and AHR. RESULTS Four hundred seventy six children (56.7% boys) were seen at 12.6 ± 0.5 years. Asthma and AHR prevalence were 26.2 and 53.8%, respectively. In fully adjusted models, high vegetable intake was protective against allergic asthma (OR 0.49; 95% CI 0.29-0.84; P < 0.009) and moderate/severe AHR (OR 0.58; 0.37-0.91; P < 0.019). CONCLUSIONS Vegetable intake is inversely associated with allergic asthma and moderate/severe AHR.
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Boeing H, Bechthold A, Bub A, Ellinger S, Haller D, Kroke A, Leschik-Bonnet E, Müller MJ, Oberritter H, Schulze M, Stehle P, Watzl B. Critical review: vegetables and fruit in the prevention of chronic diseases. Eur J Nutr 2012; 51:637-63. [PMID: 22684631 PMCID: PMC3419346 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-012-0380-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 989] [Impact Index Per Article: 82.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2012] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vegetables and fruit provide a significant part of human nutrition, as they are important sources of nutrients, dietary fibre, and phytochemicals. However, it is uncertain whether the risk of certain chronic diseases can be reduced by increased consumption of vegetables or fruit by the general public, and what strength of evidence has to be allocated to such an association. METHODS Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of the studies available in the literature and the respective study results has been performed and evaluated regarding obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, cancer, chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, osteoporosis, eye diseases, and dementia. For judgement, the strength of evidence for a risk association, the level of evidence, and the number of studies were considered, the quality of the studies and their estimated relevance based on study design and size. RESULTS For hypertension, CHD, and stroke, there is convincing evidence that increasing the consumption of vegetables and fruit reduces the risk of disease. There is probable evidence that the risk of cancer in general is inversely associated with the consumption of vegetables and fruit. In addition, there is possible evidence that an increased consumption of vegetables and fruit may prevent body weight gain. As overweight is the most important risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus, an increased consumption of vegetables and fruit therefore might indirectly reduces the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Independent of overweight, there is probable evidence that there is no influence of increased consumption on the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. There is possible evidence that increasing the consumption of vegetables and fruit lowers the risk of certain eye diseases, dementia and the risk of osteoporosis. Likewise, current data on asthma, COPD, and RA indicate that an increase in vegetable and fruit consumption may contribute to the prevention of these diseases. For IBD, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy, there was insufficient evidence regarding an association with the consumption of vegetables and fruit. CONCLUSIONS This critical review on the associations between the intake of vegetables and fruit and the risk of several chronic diseases shows that a high daily intake of these foods promotes health. Therefore, from a scientific point of view, national campaigns to increase vegetable and fruit consumption are justified. The promotion of vegetable and fruit consumption by nutrition and health policies is a preferable strategy to decrease the burden of several chronic diseases in Western societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiner Boeing
- Department of Epidemiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition, Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany
| | | | - Achim Bub
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry of Nutrition, Max Rubner-Institut, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Sabine Ellinger
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dirk Haller
- Nutrition and Food Research Centre, Chair for the Biofunctionality of Food, Technical University of Munich, Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
| | - Anja Kroke
- Department of Nutritional, Food and Consumer Sciences, Fulda University of Applied Sciences, Fulda, Germany
| | | | - Manfred J. Müller
- Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Matthias Schulze
- Department of Molecular Epidemiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition, Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany
| | - Peter Stehle
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bernhard Watzl
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry of Nutrition, Max Rubner-Institut, Karlsruhe, Germany
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Burke H, Leonardi-Bee J, Hashim A, Pine-Abata H, Chen Y, Cook DG, Britton JR, McKeever TM. Prenatal and passive smoke exposure and incidence of asthma and wheeze: systematic review and meta-analysis. Pediatrics 2012; 129:735-44. [PMID: 22430451 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2011-2196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 446] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Exposure to passive smoke is a common and avoidable risk factor for wheeze and asthma in children. Substantial growth in the prospective cohort study evidence base provides an opportunity to generate new and more detailed estimates of the magnitude of the effect. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to provide estimates of the prospective effect of smoking by parents or household members on the risk of wheeze and asthma at different stages of childhood. METHODS We systematically searched Medline, Embase, and conference abstracts to identify cohort studies of the incidence of asthma or wheeze in relation to exposure to prenatal or postnatal maternal, paternal, or household smoking in subjects aged up to 18 years old. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated by using random effects model. RESULTS We identified 79 prospective studies. Exposure to pre- or postnatal passive smoke exposure was associated with a 30% to 70% increased risk of incident wheezing (strongest effect from postnatal maternal smoking on wheeze in children aged ≤2 years, OR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.24-2.35, 4 studies) and a 21% to 85% increase in incident asthma (strongest effect from prenatal maternal smoking on asthma in children aged ≤2 years, OR = 1.85, 95% CI = 1.35-2.53, 5 studies). CONCLUSIONS Building upon previous findings, exposure to passive smoking increases the incidence of wheeze and asthma in children and young people by at least 20%. Preventing parental smoking is crucially important to the prevention of asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Burke
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, City Hospital, UK Centre for Tobacco Control Studies, Nottingham, UK
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Papadopoulou A, Hatziagorou E, Matziou V, Grigoropoulou D, Panagiotakos D, Tsanakas J, Gratziou C, Priftis K. Comparison in asthma and allergy prevalence in the two major cities in Greece: the ISAAC phase II survey. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2011; 39:347-55. [PMID: 21342745 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2010.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2010] [Revised: 10/07/2010] [Accepted: 10/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Variability in the prevalence of allergic diseases has been detected not only between different countries, but also between cities with similar national and different socio-economic or climatic characteristics. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of childhood asthma and allergies and which factors are associated with them, in the two largest Greek cities, Athens and Thessaloniki. METHODS Two thousand and twenty-three Greek 9-10-year-old schoolchildren from Athens (Central Greece) and Thessaloniki (North Greece, more humid), were included in ISAAC-II study. All participants followed the ISAAC-II protocol by questionnaire, skin prick testing and flexural dermatitis examination. RESULTS Compared with Athens, the prevalence of current wheezing (8.4% vs. 5.7%, p=0.002), lifetime asthma (11.5% vs. 7.7%, p=0.004), atopic current asthma (3.2% vs. 1.6%, p=0.02), allergic rhinitis (8.2% vs. 5.2%, p=0.007), and hay fever (21.7% vs. 12.5%, p<0.001) were higher in Thessaloniki. The overall sensitisation rate was also higher in Thessaloniki than in Athens (25.2% vs. 16%, p<0.001) with more prevalent sensitising due to the perennial allergens (D. pteronyssinus, D. farinae, Alternaria tenuis) and cat dander. Perennial allergens sensitisation was a risk factor for current asthma in both cities. CONCLUSION A higher prevalence of asthma symptoms, allergic rhinitis, and sensitisation rate was detected in Greek schoolchildren living in Thessaloniki compared to those in Athens. Allergy to mites and mould was more prevalent in Thessaloniki. The more humid weather of Thessaloniki may be implicated.
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Brew BK, Allen CW, Toelle BG, Marks GB. Systematic review and meta-analysis investigating breast feeding and childhood wheezing illness. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2011; 25:507-18. [PMID: 21980940 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3016.2011.01233.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
There is conflicting evidence concerning the relationship between breast feeding and wheezing illness. The objective of this study was to investigate whether there is any association between breast feeding and wheezing in children aged over 5 years and to discover possible sources of heterogeneity. An electronic search of MEDLINE and EMBASE databases was conducted from January 2000 to June 2010. In addition, reference lists from relevant publications were searched. Birth cohort, cross-sectional and case-control studies were included if they measured any breast feeding or exclusive breast feeding for 3 or 4 months. Wheezing illness, including asthma, was identified based on symptoms, reported diagnosis or objective criteria. Thirty-one publications were identified for meta-analysis. There was no association found between any or exclusive breast feeding and wheezing illness, although there was a high level of heterogeneity between the studies. Subgroup analysis revealed that any breast feeding slightly lowers the odds of wheeze (pooled odds ratio 0.92 [0.86, 0.98]) but slightly increases the odds of asthma defined by specific criteria (pooled odds ratio 1.10 [1.00, 1.22]). This meta-analysis does not provide evidence that breast feeding is protective against wheezing illness in children aged 5 years and over. The difference in the effects of breast feeding according to the nature of the wheezing illness highlights the importance of the heterogeneity of illness phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn K Brew
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To study the relationship between lipid, fatty acid and lipid-rich food intake and current asthma in a group of Spanish schoolchildren. SUBJECTS/METHODS The subjects of this cross-sectional study were 638 Spanish schoolchildren (8-13 years of age). The weight and height of all the subjects were recorded. A questionnaire, completed by the subjects' parents, was used to obtain personal and health information. Current asthma was established when the children had ever had asthma, if they had been diagnosed with asthma by a doctor and if they had been treated with medications at some time in the previous 12 months. Food intake was monitored using a 3-day food record. All foods consumed were converted into energy and nutrients. RESULTS The energy derived from lipids, saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and myristic and palmitic acids was independently associated with current asthma (Odds Ratio (OR) third tertile 2.85 (1.01-8.07) P=0.049, 10.00 (0.89-111.97) P=0.002, 11.21 (1.36-92.24) P=0.002, 7.58 (1.40-41.03) P=0.022, respectively), as was the intake of butter (OR third tertile 2.97 (1.01-8.68) P=0.001). No relationship was seen between this condition and the intake of any other fatty acid, the n-6/n-3 ratio, nor the consumption of margarine, milk products, fish, meat, eggs or vegetable oils. CONCLUSIONS Increased intakes of SFAs, myristic and palmitic acids and butter seem to be related to the risk of current asthma in children.
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