Can you do anything to reduce the risk of your child developing asthma?

If you have asthma and/or allergic diseases, your child can have a higher risk of developing asthma and allergic diseases.

Effective treatments for controlling asthma and allergy symptoms are available. However, there are no cures. So prevention would be an ideal approach.

Based on current evidence, the following suggestions can be made. Breastfeed exclusively for the first 6 months of life.  When possible, breastfeeding is always best for your baby. If this isn’t possible, use a partially hydrolysed formula (ask your pharmacist) in the first 6 months of life. Avoid smoking during pregnancy and avoid exposing your baby to cigarette smoke.

Even if you carry out these suggestions you may not be able to prevent your child from developing asthma and/or allergic diseases.

House dust mite avoidance measures in your baby’s bedroom (see page 7) and play areas may be considered. However, it is unlikely this will prevent wheezing or childhood asthma after your baby’s first year of life.

No suggestions can be made regarding exposure to pets or farm animals, dietary restrictions in pregnancy or lactation, or probiotics for preventing the development of asthma at this time, as study findings are inconclusive.