Removing tonsils and adenoids in childhood increases the long-term risk of respiratory disorders such as asthma and influenza, as well as allergic and infectious diseases, says a study of nearly 1.2 million children.

The researchers suggest renewed evaluation of alternatives to these common paediatric surgeries that include removal of tonsils (tonsillectomy) to treat chronic tonsillitis or adenoids (adenoidectomy) to treat recurrent middle ear infections.