Striking findings from international studies have given renewed emphasis to the possible role of the intrauterine and infant environment in the subsequent development of asthma. We are currently conducting a cohort study of over 1000 children following them from birth to examine the role of various risk factors in the development of asthma and allergies in childhood.
These include:
- Maternal diet drawing by fiona
- Fetal growth
- Infections
- Family size
- Immunisation
- Medication use
- Passive smoking
- Indoor allergens
- Diet during infancy
The Infant Cohort Study has is now in its ninth year. The Wellington Cohort children are aged between 6 and 9. The Christchurch Cohort, who had a slightly later intake, has a group a children aged between 4 and 8 years.
In Wellington we are at the tail end of seeing our 6-year olds at which age the child visits us for a comprehensive set of tests. During the visit we carry out a questionnaire, do skin prick allergy testing, lung function tests and take biological samples.
At the 8 year stage we complete a telephone questionnaire with the child's parent or gaurdian. With continued funding and support from the participant's we hope to continue the Cohort study into the teenage years.
Every year we post a newsletter out to the study participant's outlining progress, any study updates and future plans.
During the 6 Year visit, between the tests the child often has time to draw some lovely artwork for the cohort rooms wall! To the right are pieces by Fiona and Mika.
For further information on this study, please email Tristram Ingham or Phillipa Barnes