Article: Kids' exposure to pets cuts allergies

Kids' exposure to pets cuts allergies

Immune system is open to animal companionship in infancy, research shows

By LAURA BEIL Dallas Morning News

Monday, September 2, 2002

Dallas -- A little hair of the dog (or cat) may protect kids against allergies.

Children who live around two or more dogs or cats before their first birthday are less likely to have allergies of any sort, according to a recent study in an issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association.

The study is one of the most comprehensive so far to look at the "hygiene hypothesis," the idea that allergies are increasing because American childhood has gotten too clean. While some studies have suggested that early exposure to ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!