Childhood Respiratory Diseases as Determinants of Health, Education, and Socioeconomic Outcomes: A Narrative Review”

Resumen

Childhood respiratory diseases are important public health issues worldwide, especially pneumonia and asthma which impacts the low income and middle-income countries (LMICs). Evidence shows these conditions have long term consequences beyond acute illness, impacting health but also education and socioeconomic outcomes.

A literature review was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science for studies published between 2014 and January 2026. National surveys, literature from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Global Burden of Disease (GBD) studies were also included. Eligible studies were those including children aged 0–18 years reporting longterm respiratory, educational, psychosocial or economic outcomes. The study quality was ascertained with Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tools and findings were synthesized thematically.

A total of twenty-eight studies were included. According to GBD 2023 estimates, lower respiratory infections in 2023 account for approximately 2.5 million deaths and 98.7 million DALYs. While under-five mortality has been declining with improved outcomes, early childhood pneumonia and recurrent respiratory tract infections have been associated with persistent lung function impairment, increased risk of asthma and chronic respiratory disease, absenteeism from school, and psychosocial challenges. The economic burden and environmental factors such as household air pollution and PM2.5 exposures and multidimensional energy poverty worsened outcomes in LMICs

Childhood respiratory diseases may have long-term effects on health and socioeconomic status. A life-course, community-oriented public health approach that includes primary prevention, access to clean energy, and early interventions could significantly reduce long-term inequities.