It is during the eighth month of pregnancy (during the 34th week, more precisely) that the lungs of the baby complete their development – a little later than the other organs. However, according to a recent study conducted by Prof. Cecilie Svanes of the University of Bergen (Norway), three environmental factors (which occur during pregnancy and early childhood) can lead to premature aging of the lungs in adulthood.
First, the smoking. Unsurprisingly, if the mother is a smoker, the baby is more likely to suffer from lung and respiratory disorders during his life. “These people are also going to be more sensitive to the atmospheric pollution and issues related to fine particles, adds Prof. Svanes. We will never repeat how important it is to quit smoking even before pregnancy begins.”
Then the date of birth. Incredible but true: babies born in winter also have more fragile lungs than others. “We observed that, in these children, lung tissue and respiratory functions weakened more rapidly in adulthood, which corresponds to an acceleration of the normal aging process.”
The ravages of passive smoking
Finally, it seems logical: the more a child contracts respiratory diseases (bronchiolitis, pneumonia, bronchitis, whooping cough…) during his first years of life, the more he will be at risk of developing lung problems later. To reach these conclusions, Prof. Svanes studied a group of European volunteers aged 28 to 73, establishing links between their state of health and the course of their pregnancy and early childhood.
How to protect your child’s respiratory system? First, by limiting passive smoking as much as possible (do not smoke at home, avoid public places frequented by smokers, etc.). Then, by being up to date with your vaccinations (whooping cough, pneumococcus, flu, etc.). Finally, by regularly airing the living space. Easy-to-apply tips to protect your young lungs!
This work has been published in the specialized journal PlOs One.