Meta-analysis of the association between sencondhand smoke exposure and physician-diagnosed childhood asthma

Tinuoye, O., Pell, J.P. and Mackay, D.F. (2013) Meta-analysis of the association between sencondhand smoke exposure and physician-diagnosed childhood asthma. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, 15(9), pp. 1475-1483. (doi: 10.1093/ntr/ntt033)

Abstract

<p align="left">Introduction: Studies suggest an association between secondhand smoke exposure and the development of childhood asthma. Several countries are considering legislation to protect children from exposure.</p> <p align="left">Methods: A systematic review was conducted using MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Knowledge databases and a random effects meta-analysis was undertaken. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 test. Publication and small study biases were examined visually using a funnel plot and tested formally using Egger test. Univariate and multivariate meta-regression analyses were undertaken, including a subgroup analysis of cohort studies to examine the effect of duration of follow-up.</p> <p align="left">Results: Twenty relevant studies were identified (14 cross-sectional, 4 cohort, and 2 case–control) and provided 31 estimates of effect size. The pooled odds ratio was 1.32 (95% CI: 1.23, 1.42, p < .001). There was moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 74.2%, p < .001). On multivariate meta-regression analysis, effect size estimates were significantly higher for case–control studies (p = .042) and those using self-reported exposure to secondhand smoke (p = .050). There was no evidence of significant publication or small study bias (Egger test, p = .121).</p> <p align="left">Conclusions: There is now consistent evidence of a modest association between secondhand smoke and physician-diagnosed childhood asthma. These results lend support to continued efforts to reduce childhood exposure to secondhand smoke.</p>

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Mackay, Professor Daniel and Pell, Professor Jill
• Authors: Tinuoye, O., Pell, J.P., and Mackay, D.F.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Public Health
• Journal Name: Nicotine and Tobacco Research
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• ISSN: 1462-2203
• ISSN (Online): 1469-994X