Of the various factors identified with an increased risk of acute respiratory infections only breast feeding nutrition, indoor environmental pollution caused by cooking fire and parental smoking and immunization are amenable to change. The available data on ARI risk as related to the above mentioned factors are reviewed. The prospect of reducing these risk factors and developing effective interventions for long-term control of ARI are discussed. Promotion of breast feeding, improvement of nutritional status of children, reduction of indoor air pollution and immunization against measles should lead to a reduction in ARI morbidity and mortality.