Doubts Cast on Childhood Asthma and Allergies Link

Asthma rates are increasing world-wide and doctors have previously suggested a link between the development of Asthma and exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites and animal hair as contributory factors.

However, Research carried out at Humboldt University in Berlin have found that, whilst allergens may trigger asthmatic attacks in sufferers, there is little evidence to suggest a causal link in the development of the condition.

Researchers studied more than 900 children up to the age of 7 and found no significant difference in levels of allergen in the homes of children with and without diagnised asthmatic conditions. The study found that as many as 10% of children by the age of 7 had experienced wheezing in the past week and 6% had been diagnosed asthmatic. The study also found that allergic reactions aming these children might include 'increased airway sensitivity', but not full blown asthmatic attacks.

Currently, over 5500 people die each year from asthma. Incidentally, research at Long Island College Hospital New York suggests that hair from dark coloured cats may lead to more severe allergic reactions than hair from other animals; proof that crossing a black cat really can be unlucky...

For more information on allergies or for details of Allergy Screenings, designed to discover and treat potential allergies, contact Bromley Health Management.

Friday, 10 November 2000