Residential proximity to livestock farms reduces the risk of atopic sensitization

Introduction Exposure to farms during childhood and adult life seems to reduce the risk of atopic sensitization. Most studies have been conducted among subjects who are living on a farm. We aimed to investigate associations between farm proximity and atopic sensitization among adults living in a rural area with a high farm density, but who are not working or living on a livestock farm. Methods Between March 2014 and February 2015, we conducted a cross-sectional study in 2494 Dutch adults (20-72 yrs) from the general population: the VGO study (Dutch acronym for Farming and Neighbouring Residents’ Health). Atopy was assessed in serum with ELISA: specific IgE to common allergens and /or a total IgE ≥ 100 IU/ml. Distance to the nearest pig, poultry, cattle, or any farm, and number of farms within 500 m and 1000 m of the home address were determined using a Geographic Information System. Odds ratios (OR) were adjusted for sex, age, education, born in the study area, and farm childhood. Results The prevalence o...