Asthma Mgmt Week 7 Slide 5 04.14

Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing asthma. These include genetics, family history of asthma or allergies, age (asthma can start at any age), gender (more common in boys during childhood and females in adulthood), certain ethnic groups, premature birth, exposure to allergens and environmental irritants, respiratory infections, obesity, occupational exposure, intense physical activity in certain conditions, poor diet, smoking (active and passive), and emotional stress. Risk factors are non-modifiable risk factors. Genetics, family history of asthma or allergic conditions increase the risk of developing asthma. Age, asthma can develop at any age but often starts in childhood. However, adult onset asthma can also occur. Gender, asthma is more common in boys during childhood but in adulthood it's more prevalent in females. Ethnicity is certain ethnic groups such as African-Americans and Hispanics have a higher risk of asthma related complications. Premature birth, being born prematurely increases the risk of developing asthma due to underdeveloped lungs and immune system. Modifiable risks include exposure to allergens. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold and cockroach droppings can trigger asthma symptoms. Exposure to environmental irritants such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, strong odors and chemical fumes can irritate the airways and worsen asthma. Respiratory infections which are viral respiratory infections especially during early childhood can increase the risk of developing asthma. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of asthma that can and can worsen asthma symptoms. Occupational exposure is exposure to certain substances in the workplace such as chemicals, dust or fumes can trigger or exasperate asthma. Physical activity, intense physical activity especially in cold or dry air can trigger exercise induced bronchoconstriction in some individuals. Poor diet including low fruit and vegetable intake may increase the risk of asthma. Active smoking and exposure to second hand smoke are significant risk factors for asthma development and exasperations. Emotional stress and psychological factors can trigger asthma symptoms in some individuals.