It may not be good news for parents of children who live beside busy roads. Scientists of University of Southern California have found a link between increased risks of asthma with children living off busy roads.
The researchers have studied over 5000 children between 5 and 6 years who reside near the major roads in cities. Over 50% of the children who lived with 75 meters of a busy roads have increased risk of having asthma symptoms than those who live more than 300 meters from the busy roads. Researchers said that their findings are consistent with the fact that traffic on the roads are casing increased incidence of asthma in children, specially who remain affected for longer time, like being in schools or homes close to a busy intersection. However more research will be required to find out the exact components of the pollution that can trigger or increase the risk of an asthmatic attack.Researchers suggest that one way to stop this condition from affecting children will be to build schools and other recreational facilities for children like gardens and entertainment parks away from busy roads of the city.
The researchers had presented their findings at the American Thoracic Society International Conference 2005.
Reference: University of Southern California, Press release, May 2005
