BABIES who rapidly gain weight in the first three months of life are more likely to develop asthma, a study has found.

Researchers at the University of Bristol analysed information on height, weight and asthma symptoms in almost 10,000 people from birth to age 17 and found rapid weight gain from birth to age three months was consistently associated with asthma in eight and 17-year-olds.

It was also linked with lower lung function and increased responsiveness of the airways, which are both signs of asthma.

In contrast, fast weight gain in children aged between three and seven was associated with higher lung function at 15 years old.