Common environmental allergens in asthmatic children: A study on the Northeastern Iranian population pulmonary disease

Background: There is no precise information on the exposure to different allergens and smoking in asthmatic children. In the present study, we aimed to identify environmental allergens among Iranian asthmatic children. By identifying these allergens, proper management of our asthmatic children can be facilitated. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on ۵۵۷ asthmatic children who were referred to a private allergy clinic between ۲۰۰۳ and ۲۰۱۳. Study information related to baseline characteristics and history of exposure to allergens was extracted from the recorded files at the clinic. Results: Regarding exposure to different allergens, exposure to cigarette smoking was expressed in ۲۰.۴%, to opium in ۳.۸%, to hookah in ۲.۷%, to lint and wool in ۲۴.۲%, and to different birds in ۱۶.۷%. Also, exposure to humidity was revealed in ۱۲.۲%, dust in ۱۱.۸%, dogs, cats, and sheep in ۷.۲%, heaters and fireplaces in the house in ۴.۸%, and beetles and other insects in ۴.۵% of patients. Conclusion: Asthmatic children in our population are exposed to different smokes and allergens. Exposure to passive smoking, especially to cigarette or opium smoke, is common among children. Other common allergens among our asthmatic children include lint, wool, and birds.