Children who are overweight by 8 years old were found to have higher incidence of asthma and allergic sensitivity, according to a study published in the American Academy of Pediatrics. Here are specifics on study findings and how they impact parent decisions.
Asthma and childhood obesity studies
In October, Science Daily reported obese children are twice as likely to have asthma as nonobese children. In the Pediatrics study, pediatric allergy and asthma researchers from Norway and Sweden looked at how changes in a child’s weight status may affect his predisposition to asthma allergy.
Weight gain in 7-, 8-year-olds linked to asthma problems
The study revealed those with over-85 percent body mass indexes were no more prone to asthma at 12 to 18 months or when they were tested at age 4. By age 8, children with a high BMI were at greater risk for asthma regardless of whether they had been overweight in the earlier years or not. Children were more at risk for wheezing or other problems with inhalant allergies if they were overweight at age 8.
Childhood obesity, asthma parenting implications
Study authors conclude parents should be mindful of asthma in children who have a number of risk factors in combination: BMIs over 85 percent, exposure to secondhand smoke, maternal history of obesity or parents history of asthma or allergy. Weight problems at or after ages 8 to 10 seem to predispose children to other problems as well. In 2008, Science Daily reported on a study by Kansas State University that found children with sedentary lives and high body fat had more asthma-like symptoms after exercise. In 2010, a study from West Virginia University found children of normal weight who don’t get a balanced diet or proper exercise are at greater risk for asthma. Study authors recommended parents improve nutrition and boost fitness levels, especially in school years to reduce asthma risk.
Ages 8 to 10 critical for obesity, asthma prevention
A Pediatrics study underscored the concern for obesity at age 8. Forty percent of kids begin school in the 85th percentile. Significant weight gain after ages 8 to 10, especially if not accompanied by equally significant height gain, is an indicator of lifelong obesity problems. Study authors concluded parents should build good nutrition habits early and monitor weight gain at all ages but the time for teaching good nutrition and fitness was in the early school years.
Marilisa Kinney Sachteleben writes about parenting from 23 years raising four children and 25 years teaching K-8, special needs, adult education and home-school.
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