Sensitization profiles at age 8-9 years in the PARIS birth cohort and related environmental risk factors

Abstract

TPS 752: Respiratory effects and allergies, Exhibition Hall, Ground floor, August 27, 2019, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Background/Aim: The prevalence of allergic diseases has increased over the past decades, especially in developed countries, and environment may contribute to this increase. From a preventive perspective, it is essential to identify the environmental risk factors of allergic diseases in childhood. The aims were to determine the prevalence of allergic sensitization at 8-9 years in the PARIS (Pollution and asthma risk: an infant study) birth cohort, to identify different profiles of allergic sensitization, and to highlight their environmental risk factors. Methods: Allergic sensitization was assessed at 8-9 years by two techniques (specific IgE levels and skin prick tests (SPT)) for 10 allergens. The children’s environment and way of life were evaluated using self-administered questionnaires regularly completed by the parents. Different sensitization profiles were identified by cluster analysis and the environmental risk factors were studied by multivariable multinomial logistic regression models. Results: 943 children were included in this study and 34.7% were sensitized mainly to airborne allergens. Three sensitization profiles were identified: a “no or pauci-sensitized” group, a “house dust mite” group and a “grass and birch pollen” group. Girls were less likely to be sensitized: aOR=0.5 (95% CI: 0.3-0.8) for the “house dust mite” group and aOR=0.5 (95% CI: 0.3-0.9) for the “grass and birch pollen” group. The risk of belonging to the “house dust mite” group was increased by age (aOR=1.6; 95% CI: 1.1-2.4), parental history of allergy (aOR=1.7; 95% CI: 1.1-2.7), floor carpeting in the child’s room at birth (aOR=1.7; 95% CI: 1.0-2.7) and the use of gas for cooking (aOR=1.6; 95% CI: 1.0-2.5). A running mechanical ventilation in the dwelling increased the risk of belonging to the “grass and birch pollen” group (aOR=1.8; 95% CI: 1.0-3.2). Conclusions: This study showed two sensitization profiles at age 8-9 years which differ in terms of environmental risk factors.