Rural living in Finland linked to lower risk of atopic diseases, study finds

Living in a rural farm setting during infancy may provide protection against atopic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and the incidence of multiple atopic conditions, with this protective effect lasting into middle age. This finding emerges from a doctoral study conducted by Anna Haarala at the University of Oulu.

The significance of this research lies in its focus on the impact of rural living on the development of atopic diseases, which has primarily been studied in childhood and young adulthood. According to Haarala, urban children have less exposure to nature than their rural counterparts, suggesting a need to enhance nature interactions in everyday life, particularly in daycare environments.

The study revealed that early childhood spent in rural areas, especially on farms, significantly decreased the prevalence of allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, multiple atopic conditions, and sensitization by the age of 46. Those who lived in rural settings exhibited a risk of sensitization that was nearly 50% lower. Haarala notes the importance of hands-on interactions with soil and nature in training our immune systems.

Haarala’s research incorporates data from over 5,000 individuals, all part of a broader population study from Northern Finland established in 1966. Participants completed surveys and underwent health examinations at ages 31 and 46, including skin prick tests for four allergens (birch, timothy grass, cat, and dust mites) to assess atopic sensitization.

Among the 46-year-olds studied, 7% exhibited atopic dermatitis, nearly one-third reported allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis, and 9% had asthma. Additionally, around 25% of participants had two or more atopic conditions. Notably, three-fourths of those with atopic dermatitis also had another atopic disease, emphasizing the need for comprehensive treatment approaches for adults with atopic dermatitis. The findings support the idea that early exposure to a diverse microbial environment in rural settings may safeguard against the onset of atopic diseases.