Parental smoking associated with increased risk of allergic conjunctivitis in children: Study
A new study published in the Journal of Asthma and Allergy showed that children who were exposed to parental smoking had a considerably higher incidence of allergic conjunctivitis (AC). Even when confounders were taken into consideration, the correlation was still strong.
Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is a widespread eye illness in children, presenting symptoms like itching, dryness, and discomfort. Severe types such as vernal and atopic keratoconjunctivitis can lead to substantial vision impairment if addressed. AC affects up to 40% of the global population, with increased frequency, particularly in children and emerging nations, where environmental variables play a crucial impact. Passive smoking, mostly owing to parental smoking, is a severe health concern to children, associated to illnesses such as ADHD, sudden infant death syndrome, bronchiolitis, and different allergy problems like asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis.
Studies reveal a potential relationship between passive smoking and allergic rhino-conjunctivitis, however its precise involvement in AC remains underexplored, especially among Chinese youngsters. This study closes the gap by evaluating the relationship between parental smoking and AC in this group, giving vital insights for public health.
The cross-sectional study was done at the ophthalmology department of Tianjin Children’s Hospital from 2021 to 2022. Researchers utilized logistic regression to evaluate the link between parental smoking and AC. The stability of the data was assured using subgroup analysis and propensity score matching (PSM).
A total of 4249 people satisfied the inclusion criteria and were examined. After controlling for all variables, parental smoking was strongly linked with AC. The adjusted odds ratio was 1.17 (1.03– 1.34). Significant interactions were detected for manner of delivery and numerous pregnancies, in relation to the anticipated outcome of AC (P < 0.05).
Further exploratory subgroup analyses in children with hyperopia, astigmatism, and myopia revealed no significant interactions (all P values for interaction were > 0.05). After correcting for relevant confounders using PSM, the results remained constant.
Overall, this study emphasizes how parental smoking has a major effect on children's development of allergic conjunctivitis. The results demonstrate a strong correlation between a higher risk of AC and parental smoking. This danger may be reduced by cutting back on or banning smoking near youngsters.
Source:
Wang, H., & Zhang, S. (2025). Parental smoking and risk of allergic conjunctivitis in Chinese pediatric population: A cross-sectional study. Journal of Asthma and Allergy, 18, 1467–1476. https://doi.org/10.2147/JAA.S544598
