The Freeway Running through the Yard: Traffic Exhaust and Asthma in Children
2006
Traffic Exhaust and Asthma in Children
Sample size: 5341
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Potera Carol
Primary Institution: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Hypothesis
Does exposure to traffic-related pollutants at home increase the prevalence of asthma in children?
Conclusion
Children living near busy roads are more likely to experience asthma and wheezing.
Supporting Evidence
- Children living within 75 meters of a major road are 1.5 times more likely to report asthma.
- Children with no parental history of asthma living near heavy traffic since before age 2 have even higher risks.
- Few studies in the U.S. have examined the link between traffic and childhood asthma.
Takeaway
Kids who live close to busy roads are more likely to have asthma. It's like being near a lot of cars makes it harder for them to breathe.
Methodology
The study evaluated the respiratory health of children based on their distance from major roads using traffic data.
Limitations
The reasons for the greater association in girls are unknown.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 5 to 7 years from 13 communities in Southern California.
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