Risk factors for Asthma

Definite (All studies show statistical significance)

Ø   Genetic predisposition to atopy

Ø   Genetic predisposition to hyper responsiveness

Ø   Family history of Asthma/Atopy

Ø   Early lung disease / Bronchiolitis

Ø   Increased IgE

Ø   Positive skin test(RAST)

Ø   Maternal smoking

Ø   Concurrent Allergic Rhinitis/Atopic Dermatitis (Early onset < 01 yr)

Ø   House dust / Mite

Ø   Male

Probable (Multiple studies are in favour, occasional not)

Ø   Immediate / Early food reactivity

Ø   Increased humidity / House dampness

Ø   Pets at home (Furred animals)

Ø   Eosinophilia (Adult > children)

Ø   LBW

Ø   Black race

Ø   Obesity

Possible (Equal studies are in favour / against)

Ø   Air pollution

Ø   Skin test reactive to Milk / Eggs /peanuts < 01 yr

Ø   Not breastfed

Ø   Paternal smoking

Ø   Cockroach allergy

Ø   Childhood Obesity

Ø   Day care attendance

Ø   Central city residence

Ø   Low Socioeconomic status

Ø   Cooking wood / charcoal

Ø   Increased IgE levels

Ø   Maternal young age

Unlikely (Most studies show statistically no significance)

           

Ø   H/O Urticaria

Ø   Delayed food reaction

Ø   LRTI after infancy

No Association

Ø   IgG, IgA levels

Ø   Gas stove at home

Ø   Proportions of proteins / fish in diet

Triggers

Ø   Allergens – indoor :  Domestic furred pets, mites, cockroach,

Ø   Allergens – outdoor: Pollen, fungi, molds, yeasts

Ø   Viral infection / RSV

Ø   Smoking – active & passive

Ø   Occupational sensitizers

Ø   Exercise

Ø   Weather change

Ø   Emotional

Ø   Role of food / diet – Proteins / additives

Ø   Endocrine – e.g. Puberty