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Risk Factors for AsthmaMain Page | Risk Factors | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Screening | Reducing Your Risk | Talking to Your Doctor | Living With Asthma | Living With Asthma | Resource Guide A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition. It is possible to develop asthma with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing asthma. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk. Risk factors for asthma include: Genetics It has been noted that asthma tends to run in families. People whose immediate blood relatives have asthma are more likely to develop the disease. Genes and your environment play a role in the development of asthma. When asthma runs in families, genetic factors play a relatively large role. When asthma does not run in families, the genetic influence is not as significant as the environmental exposures. Allergies People who have allergies (especially allergic rhinitis and severe food allergies) have a greater chance of developing asthma. Allergens that may be associated with asthma include:
Medical Conditions The following medical conditions increase your risk of developing asthma:
Age Although asthma can develop at any age, current statistics show that more than 50% of asthma cases are found in children between the ages of 2-17. Exposure to Potential Allergens Frequent exposure to the following potential allergens increases your risk of developing asthma:
Gender Both males and females develop asthma. During childhood it is more common in boys; however, after the age of 20 the ratio is equal among the sexes. Ethnic Background Asthma affects people of all ethnic backgrounds. However, it is slightly more common in blacks and Hispanics than in whites. References: Asthma. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php . Updated July 2009. Accessed July 21, 2009. Asthma. Mayo Clinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sprained-ankle/DS01014 . Updated May 2008. Accessed July 21, 2009. Kasper DL, Harrison TR. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 1998. Last reviewed September 2009 by Christine Colpitts, CRT, MA Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2009 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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