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Risk factors
By Mayo Clinic staffIt isn't clear why some children get asthma and others don't, but it's probably due to a combination of genetic (inherited) and environmental factors. Children with a family history of asthma are at greater risk of developing the disease. Other environmental factors that may increase your child's chances of developing asthma include:
- Exposure to tobacco smoke
- Previous allergic reactions, including skin reactions, food allergies or allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Living in a large urban area with increased exposure to air pollution
- A family history of asthma, allergic rhinitis, hives or eczema
- Low birth weight
- Obesity
