Comment On Research Linking Twins' Birthweight And Risk Of Asthma And Eczema

Main Category: Respiratory / Asthma
Also Included In: Allergy;  Pediatrics / Children's Health;  Eczema / Psoriasis
Article Date: 10 Jun 2010 - 3:00 PDT

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'There is now a broad spectrum of evidence which suggests that the pre-natal environment, including factors such as family history and the mother's diet during pregnancy, can influence whether or not a child will go on to develop asthma or allergy symptoms. However, prior to this study, a meaningful link between birth weight and the development of allergic conditions during childhood had not been established.

'As twins have the same genetic make-up and experience the same pre and post-natal environment, studies such as this are important because they enable us to determine the impact of genetics versus the environment on child health. The results show that birth weight may influence which allergic conditions the child goes on to develop, but we still need to understand the reasons why, so further research is needed.

'Every 19 minutes a child is admitted to hospital in the UK because of their asthma but with the causes still predominantly unknown, studies like this are vital, as they provide a greater insight into the factors influencing asthma and allergy development and therefore how it might be prevented.'

Source
Asthma UK

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