Synergistic Effect of Traffic-Related Air Pollution and Allergic Sensitization on Rhinitis Development

Objectives: Rhinitis is a common chronic respiratory disease affecting 10-40% of children in the United States. Allergen sensitization is a potential risk factor for atopic disease and the prevalence is high among children and adolescents in urban areas. Previous study showed positive association between positive Skin Prick Test (SPT) and new onset of allergic rhinitis in adults but limited studies were reported in children. It is also largely unknown if traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) increases risk of rhinitis development in susceptible children. Methods: Using data from Children’s Health Study in Southern California, 67 children of 5-7 years who were rhinitis-free at baseline and completed SPT test to common indoor and outdoor allergens were enrolled in this study and followed for up to 8 years. Demographic characteristics, personal history of asthma, other respiratory symptoms were obtained from questionnaire at baseline and updated annually during follow-up. Traffic-related pollutant exposure wa...