Life-course of atopy and allergy-related disease events in tropical sub-Saharan Africa: A birth cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In high-income countries, allergy-related diseases (ARDs) follow a typical sequence, the 'Atopic March'. Little is known about the life-course of ARDs in the markedly different, low-income, tropical environment. We describe ARDs in a tropical, African birth cohort.

Methods

Ugandan children were followed from birth to 9 years. ISAAC questionnaires were completed at intervals; doctor-diagnosed ARDs were recorded throughout follow-up. Skin prick tests (SPTs) were performed at 3 and 9 years. Atopy was defined as ≥1 positive SPT.

Results

Of the 2345 live-born children, 1214 (52%) were seen at 9 years. Wheeze and eczema were common in infancy, but by 9 years, only 4% reported recent wheeze, 5% eczema and 5% rhinitis. Between 3 and 9 years, atopy prevalence increa

SUBMITTER: Lule SA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5488189 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature