Thumb-sucking or nail-biting in childhood led to a reduction in atopic sensitisation but not asthma or hay fever

Study design Design: Prospective longitudinal population-based birth cohort study. Study question Do children who have oral habits (thumb-sucking or nail-biting) have a lower risk of developing atopic sensitisation, asthma and hay fever? Setting: Dunedin, New Zealand, participants born in 1972–1973. Cohorts: A birth cohort of 1037 participants was asked multiple questions at multiple time points. For this study, ‘oral habits’ (frequently sucked their finger/thumb or bit their nails) were assessed at 5, 7, 9 and 11 years. Outcomes: 11 or 12 panel skin prick testing at age 13 and 32 years. Atopic sensitisation was defined as having ≥1 positive response to an allergen. Asthma was diagnosed from respiratory assessments at age 9 years or onwards and compatible symptoms or treatment in the last 12 months. Hay fever was diagnosed by report at age 13 or 32 years. Follow-up period: 38 years. Assessments at 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18, 21,...
Source: Archives of Disease in Childhood - Education and Practice - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Journalology, Epidemiologic studies, Picket, Immunology (including allergy), Child health, Asthma, Dermatology, Ear, nose and throat/otolaryngology STRUCTURED ABSTRACTS OF SENTINEL ARTICLES: PICKET Source Type: research