Passive smoking and allergic diseases in childhood: a systematic review
Abstract
Summary: A systematic review was conducted to examine epidemiological and other medical findings regarding 8 clinical questions to investigate associations between passive smoking and allergic diseases in childhood. Passive smoking was associated with the following in childhood: increased risk of onset, aggravation, and impaired respiratory function in asthma; increases in coughing and sputum. Maternal smoking during pregnancy was associated with onset of asthma in childhood, and persistent impairment of respiratory function from birth. Passive smoking was suggested as a risk factor associated with onset and aggravation of allergic rhinitis, and was also associated with increases in total IgE levels and positive specific IgE test and skin prick test results. In particular, passive smoking during early infancy was significantly associated with sensitization to food and indoor allergens. Reported studies on atopic dermatitis and food allergies were limited, and findings on their associations with passive smoking were contra-dictory. Thus, their causal relationship was inconclusive in this study. In sum, passive smoking has serious impacts on allergic diseases in childhood and proactive avoidance of passive smoking is recommended.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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