THE use of paracetamol for babies and young children could be one of the driving forces behind an epidemic of childhood asthma, a study has revealed.
Researchers who analysed data on more than 200,000 children found strong links between the painkiller and the development of asthma symptoms.
Taking paracetamol once a month more than tripled the chances of six- and seven-year-olds suffering wheezing attacks.
Yesterday, a report in Britain`s The Lancet medical journal stated that paracetamol has not been proven to cause asthma, but the strength of the association makes it likely. More exposure to the drug resulted in more asthma attacks, which tended to happen after the start of paracetamol use.
The study, which spanned 31 countries, found that giving children paracetamol in the first year of life increased the risk of later asthma symptoms by 46 per cent.
Using the drug in the first year of life increased the risk of hay fever and eczema, two other allergic conditions, at the age of six and seven by 48 per cent and 35 per cent respectively.
Among the older children, "medium use" of paracetamol - taking it at least once a year - increased the risk of asthma symptoms by 61 per cent.
Taking paracetamol at least once a month - classified as "high use" - increased the risk of symptoms by 3.23 times. The study adds to evidence of a link between the drug and asthma.
Research into adults also suggested that once-a-week use increased the risk of the disease.
Scientists believe paracetamol may cause changes in the body that leave a child more vulnerable to inflammation and allergies.
The drug`s rise in popularity has accompanied a sharp increase in childhood asthma.
