Risk factors for childhood asthma

Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate correlation between atopic dermatitis (AD), environmental tobacco smoke exposure and bronchial asthma (BA) in children.

Materials and methods:  We conducted a cross-sectional study on 76 children with BA aged 5-14 and equal number of non asthmatic children matched by sex and age.  Diagnosis atopic dermatitis was based on patient history and data from medical records, when obtainable.

Results: The prevalence of AD was significantly higher in children with BA compared to non-asthmatic children. Atopic dermatitis was detected in 41% of children with BA and only in 8% of non-asthmatic children (p<0,01). Positive family history of allergic diseases was also higher in children with asthma (35%vs5%, p< 0,01).  Environmental tobacco smoke exposure in the home was found in 65 % of asthmatic children compared to 25% on non-asthmatic (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Results confirm the role of atopic dermatitis (personal or family history) and environmental tobacco smoke exposure as a risk factor for childhood asthma.