Sibling Number and Allergic Disorders in Pregnant Japanese Women
Author Information
Author(s): Miyake Yoshihiro, Tanaka Keiko, Arakawa Masashi
Primary Institution: Fukuoka University
Hypothesis
What is the relationship between the number of siblings and the prevalence of allergic disorders among pregnant women in Japan?
Conclusion
The study found a significant inverse relationship between the number of older siblings and the prevalence of rhinoconjunctivitis among pregnant Japanese women.
Supporting Evidence
- The prevalence of rhinoconjunctivitis was lower in women with older siblings.
- Adjusted odds ratio for having 1 older sibling was statistically significant.
- Total number of siblings did not significantly relate to allergic disorders.
Takeaway
Having more older siblings may help reduce the chances of getting a stuffy nose and itchy eyes during pregnancy.
Methodology
The study used questionnaire data from 1745 pregnant women and adjusted for various confounding factors.
Potential Biases
The study population had higher educational levels than the general population, which may introduce bias.
Limitations
The study could not calculate the participation rate and the sample may not be representative of the general population.
Participant Demographics
Participants were pregnant women from Fukuoka and Okinawa, Japan, with a mean age of 31.2 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.03
Confidence Interval
0.56-0.91
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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