Although pollen from trees may pose a problem for children with asthma, a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health claims trees actually reduce asthma rates.
Columbia University researchers found asthma incidence in children aged 4-5 years fell by nearly 30% for every extra 343 trees planted per square kilometre. There were also fewer hospitalisations for asthma attacks, even when risk factors like pollution and pets were taken into account.
Two reasons are suggested: one, trees clean the air and encourage outdoor play and two, exposing children to pollen could possibly help desensitise their immune systems to allergens.
Your say: Does anyone in your family suffer from asthma or allergies? Do you find that being outside improves their condition? Tell us below.
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