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Asthma, one of the most important chronic diseases of children, disproportionately affects minority and low-income children. Many environmental risk factors for asthma have been identified, including animal, mite, and other allergens; cigarette smoke; and air pollutants. Genetics also play an important causative role, as indicated by familial aggregation and the identification of candidate genes and chromosomal regions linked to asthma risk. Using a positive family history of asthma to identify children at increased risk could provide a basis for targeted prevention efforts, aimed at reducing exposure to environmental risk factors.

To assess the predictive value of family history as an indicator of risk for childhood asthma, we reviewed population-based studies that evaluated family history of asthma and atopic disease in children with asthma.

Our search identified 33 studies from all …