Portal de Periódicos da CAPES

Impact of SARS on development of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

2007; Springer Nature; Volume: 21; Issue: 7 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1038/sj.leu.2404729

1476-5551

Chi Kong Li, Benny Zee, J Lee, Ki Wai Chik, Sy Ha, Vickie Lee,

Neonatal Respiratory Health Research

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is the commonest malignancy in children. The aetiology of childhood ALL is not clear, but it is postulated to be multiple-hit with interaction of genetic and environmental factors. One subtype of ALL, 'Common' ALL, is more common in resource-rich countries. There were studies suggesting population mixing at young age associated with higher incidence of Common ALL.1, 2 There were also reports on exposure of some common infection during infancy protecting children from development of ALL in later age.3 Two local studies in Hong Kong supported the hypothesis of population mixing and the protective effect of early exposure to infection.4, 5 Most of the epidemiological studies were studied in a relatively stable community without significant changes in lifestyle. In the first half of 2003, Hong Kong experienced the worst hit of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in the world. From 28 February 2003 to 2 June 2003, a total of 1755 patients were diagnosed with SARS with 300 mortalities.6 With the high number of patients infected in the community, the Hong Kong Government had instituted extraordinary measures to prevent the spread of the infection. During that period, classes were suspended and schools were closed for 2 months. After resuming classes, there were strict measures to prevent spread of communicable infections. Schools were required to cleanse and disinfect the facilities daily, and maintain good indoor ventilation. Students were required to wear masks in schools. Body temperature checking was compulsory for all students before going to school. Children with fever or respiratory infections were not allowed to attend schools. The hand-washing campaign was a major public event during the SARS period. Most people avoided going to public areas and group activities were all cancelled. The strict infection control measures lasted for about 6 months.