Exposure to Environmental Pollutants and the Risk of Respiratory Illnesses in 36-Month-Old Children: The Korean Children's Environmental Health Study (Ko-CHENS).

purposeThis study aimed to investigate the association of exposure to environmental pollutants and surrounding residential environments with the development of respiratory illnesses in 36-month-old children using data from the Korean CHildren's ENvironmental health Study.

methodsDemographic information and anthropometric measurements were obtained from the newborns. At 36 months of age, indoor environmental pollutant levels (particulate matter [PM₁₀ and PM

resultsAmong the total of 4,059 children, current allergic rhinitis was the most prevalent respiratory illness at 36 months. Compared with children without respiratory illnesses, those with respiratory illnesses showed significantly higher frequencies of exposure to environmental tobacco smoking and pet ownership. Dust mite concentrations were higher among children with recurrent wheezing and pneumonia. Mixture exposure analysis revealed that overall mixture exposure was positively associated with current allergic rhinitis, largely driven by lead and phthalate metabolites, and with pneumonia, mainly attributable to phthalate metabolites. Exposure to a mixture of multiple chemicals was positively associated with infantile asthma and current asthma.

conclusionsDirect and indirect exposures to environmental pollutants are closely associated with the development of respiratory illnesses in young children, and the surrounding residential environment during early childhood also plays a critical role in determining respiratory disease risk. These findings support the need for systematic and sustainable environmental management at both individual and community levels to protect children who are particularly vulnerable to environmental hazards.