Asthma

Study links use of new obesity drugs to reduction of asthma exacerbations and inhaler use

Baltimore emergency rooms see spike in asthma-related cases after night heat waves

New research from Johns Hopkins University finds that nighttime temperature swings are key predictors of asthma-related ER cases. The study suggests that updating Code Red alerts to include nighttime temperatures could help protect vulnerable communities.

New Colorado Asthma-Friendly Schools initiative honors 221 schools statewide

The Colorado Asthma-Friendly Schools initiative recognizes 221 schools for their comprehensive asthma management and student health efforts. Over 120,000 students have benefited from the implementation of evidence-based asthma management practices at school.

Mothers without specific fatty acid in the blood more often have children with asthma

A new study finds that pregnant women with low levels of a specific fatty acid molecule are more likely to have children with childhood asthma. The researchers also found that children of these mothers are more prone to respiratory infections and altered lung microbiomes.

Link observed between very high PFAS exposure and asthma in children

A recent study found a significant link between very high PFAS exposure and an increased incidence of asthma in children. Researchers analyzed data from over 11,000 children born in Sweden and discovered that the risk of developing asthma was around 40% higher among those with very high PFAS exposure.

High prenatal exposure to PFAS may increase the risk of childhood asthma

A Swedish study found that high prenatal PFAS exposure is associated with a higher incidence of asthma in childhood. The research used a register-based cohort of children born between 2006 and 2013 to assess the relationship between maternal exposure and asthma outcomes.

Children living near the Salton Sea in Southern California show slower lung function growth

A long-term study found children living near the Salton Sea have slower lung function growth, with effects comparable to freeway exposure. The researchers controlled for various factors and found that dust exposure was linked to lower lung capacity, suggesting potential long-term health implications.

Reactivation of dormant regulatory T cells alleviates asthma symptoms in mice

Researchers discovered that targeting the Dectin-1 receptor can restore functional pathways of dysfunctional immune cells like Tregs, offering a promising novel therapeutic avenue for treating allergic asthma. The study showed that this approach can reduce airway inflammation and renew immunoregulatory capacity.

Could a hot cup of matcha dial down the ‘sneeze switch’ in allergic rhinitis?

A study in mice suggests that matcha may reduce the need to sneeze in people with nasal allergies, suppressing brainstem neuronal activation without changing major immune markers. The findings provide a potential, food-based option to complement standard care for allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Improving indoor environment reduces asthma attacks in adults, study finds

A large survey of Texas adults with asthma found that improving airflow, using air purifiers, and minimizing allergens can significantly reduce asthma attacks. The study also highlights disparities in asthma burden among certain groups, including women, older adults, and Black adults.

Inhaled microplastics and lung health

New research suggests that inhaled microplastics can cause inflammation and damage to the lungs, potentially increasing the risk of respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD. Microplastics can also trigger inflammatory responses and deliver toxins directly into the lungs, highlighting a growing concern for lung health.

Housing conditions and outdoor air pollution together affect children’s asthma risk, new ECHO study shows

A new study found that children growing up in homes with water damage and exposed to high levels of outdoor air pollution have a greater risk of developing asthma. The study also revealed that having a dog during infancy can reduce the risk of asthma in children.

Adoption of electric vehicles tied to real-world reductions in air pollution, study finds

A new study using satellite data confirms that California's shift to electric vehicles is making measurable differences in air quality and public health. For every 200 ZEVs added, nitrogen dioxide levels dropped 1.1%.

Diagnoses of major conditions failing to recover since the pandemic

A recent study by King's College London found that diagnosis rates for depression, asthma, and osteoporosis remained lower than expected after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study analyzed data from over 29 million people in England and found that diagnosis rates recovered differently across ethnic and socioeconomic groups.

CHEST receives Glenview Environmental Sustainability Award for Innovation

The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) received the 2025 Glenview Environmental Sustainability Award for Innovation, recognizing its commitment to clean energy and reduced emissions. The organization's solar panel installation at its headquarters powers medical simulation facilities using renewable energy.

New method predicts asthma attacks up to five years in advance

Researchers have identified a new method to predict asthma exacerbations using sphingolipid and steroid ratios, allowing for accurate identification of high-risk patients. The method has the potential to revolutionize asthma treatment by enabling clinicians to intervene before an attack occurs.

New method predicts asthma attacks up to five years in advance

Researchers have identified a new method to predict asthma exacerbations with a high degree of accuracy, analyzing data from three large asthma cohorts. The study found that the ratio between sphingolipids and steroids was the most powerful predictor of future health.

Asthma-related depression may be biologically distinct from primary depression

Adults with asthma who experience depressive symptoms have elevated blood levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein typically reduced in major depressive disorder. Physical activity may also play a role in depression management, as lower activity levels are linked to worse moods.

Infant gut bacteria may be the key to preventing asthma and allergies

Researchers have identified a previously unknown mechanism that can reduce the risk of allergies and asthma in children. Certain bifidobacteria produce a substance called 4-hydroxyphenyl lactate (4-OH-PLA), which dampens immune responses to allergens, reducing the production of IgE antibodies.

CHEST releases guideline on biologic management in severe asthma

The American College of Chest Physicians released a new clinical guideline on biologic management in severe asthma. The guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for selecting biologics for different patient populations, considering factors such as baseline oral corticosteroid use and comorbid conditions.

Glucagonlike peptide-1 receptor agonists and asthma risk in adolescents with obesity

A recent study found that adolescents with overweight or obesity who take glucagonlike peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) have a lower risk of acute asthma exacerbations. This association suggests a potential dual benefit, where GLP-1RA use could address both weight management and asthma prevention in this population.

Canadian wildfire smoke worsened pediatric asthma in US Northeast: UVM study

Research from University of Vermont reveals exposure to Canadian wildfire smoke worsened asthma symptoms in children in the US Northeast. The study found that smoke from hundreds of miles away affected children's health, highlighting growing health risks for the region as climate change fuels more smoke-filled summers.

Eating disorders in mums-to-be linked to heightened risk of asthma and wheezing in their kids

Research found a heightened risk of preschool wheeze and school age asthma associated with maternal eating disorders. The study suggests including dedicated support for these disorders in maternal healthcare to improve respiratory health.

The Lancet Respiratory Medicine: Monthly injection may help severe asthma patients safely reduce or stop daily oral steroid use

A new phase 3b clinical trial found that nearly 90% of severe asthma patients were able to reduce their steroid dose to a low dose after one year of treatment with the biologic medication Tezepelumab. The treatment also significantly improved asthma symptoms, lung function, and overall quality of life, while minimizing steroid use.

Monthly injection helps severe asthma patients safely stop or reduce daily steroids

A monthly injection has helped 90% of severe asthma patients reduce their reliance on daily steroid tablets. Treatment with tezepelumab improved asthma symptoms, lung function, and overall quality of life, with two-thirds of patients experiencing no asthma attacks.

Moving beyond fear: Expert consensus defines safe exercise for pediatric asthma

Exercise now considered a key component of asthma management, with aerobic, resistance, and flexibility training recommended. Wearable devices and home spirometry monitor lung function and exercise intensity for personalized plans.

Decades-old asthma theory challenged: Newly discovered molecules may be real drivers of disease

Case Western Reserve University researchers discovered pseudo leukotrienes, which may be the dominant players in the inflammatory cascade that causes disease. The findings open new avenues for treating asthma and other inflammatory diseases.

Dusty air is rewriting your lung microbiome

Scientists found that breathing dusty air from the Salton Sea can alter the lung microbiome and trigger immune responses in mice. The study suggests that chronic exposure to such dust could have significant health effects, including asthma.

Poorer health linked to more votes for Reform UK, 2024 voting patterns suggest

The analysis of 2024 English voting patterns suggests that poorer health is associated with higher proportions of votes for Reform UK. This finding highlights the need for policymakers to address health inequalities and improve public health.

CHEST and the City of Chicago announce October 19 as “Love Your Lungs Day"

The American College of Chest Physicians has designated October 19, 2025, as 'Love Your Lungs Day' in recognition of respiratory health. This initiative aims to raise awareness about lung diseases such as asthma and COPD, promoting equity and supporting healthcare providers.

Improved cough-detection tech can help with health monitoring

Researchers developed a more accurate cough-detection model using wearable health monitors' audio and movement data. The new model can distinguish between coughs and nonverbal sounds, improving the accuracy of respiratory disease tracking.

Study finds HEPA purifiers alone may not be enough to reduce viral exposure in schools

A study of 200 classrooms found that HEPA purifiers did not significantly reduce respiratory viral exposures, suggesting additional interventions are needed. Maintaining classroom humidity between 40% and 60% may help lower viral exposures and improve comfort for students and teachers.

Inspection confirmed mould damage in schools does not increase students’ risk of developing asthma

A recent study found no association between mould damage in schools and the development of asthma among students. Despite extensive mould damage in some schools, the health of over 30,000 students was tracked over a 16-year period, showing no increase in asthma cases.

Pediatric investigation study links dietary preferences to childhood asthma in Shanghai

A new study found that children who prefer pickled, smoked, and fried foods are more likely to have asthma. In contrast, seafood preference appears to reduce asthma risk among normal-weight children. The findings highlight the importance of early-life dietary habits in shaping respiratory health.

Hypnosis can make ventilation masks more acceptable to patients with breathing problems

A pilot study found that hypnosis significantly improved patients' tolerance of masks, allowing them to breathe more comfortably. The study showed a substantial improvement in non-invasive ventilation (NIV) tolerance, reduced agitation, and lower requirements for sedation and anti-anxiety medication.

Children with asthma who use at-home monitoring are half as likely to need hospital care

Research shows that remote monitoring of children's asthma can prevent hospitalizations by around 57%. The system helps keep symptoms under control, leading to better outcomes and lasting self-management skills. This innovative approach could revolutionize healthcare services for patients with asthma.

Babies who grow up around dogs may have a lower risk of developing childhood asthma

Research suggests that exposure to dog allergens in the home may reduce the risk of developing childhood asthma by five years old. Babies with higher levels of Can f1, a dog skin protein, had around a 48% lower risk of developing asthma and better lung function.

Mayo Clinic’s AI tools help predict severe asthma risks in young children

Researchers developed AI tools that use machine learning and natural language processing to extract details from doctors' notes. The tools detected a high-risk asthma subtype that makes some children more vulnerable to acute respiratory infections and asthma exacerbation.

Scientists call for urgent action to reduce children’s plastic exposure

A review of hundreds of studies found a link between childhood plastic exposure and long-term health concerns like heart disease, obesity, and asthma. Parents can take simple steps to limit their children's plastic exposure, such as replacing plastic containers with glass or stainless steel.

Inhaling cannabis may greatly increase your risk of getting asthma

A new study found that inhaling marijuana daily is associated with a 44% increased chance of developing asthma. Experts say people should avoid inhaling cannabis to reduce the risk of chronic lung disease. The study's authors emphasize the need for clearer messages about the risks of cannabis use.

Metals and sulfate in air pollution mixture may contribute most to asthma hospitalizations

A study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that long-term exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) from metals like nickel and vanadium, and sulfate particles, is strongly linked to asthma hospitalizations. The researchers identified these compounds as the most harmful components in the PM2.5 mixture.

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers link dietary fats to more severe form of asthma

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that certain lipids in obesity-causing foods cause asthma-like lung inflammation. The study suggests that modifying dietary choices and repurposing existing drugs could help treat this type of asthma, which is more likely to send patients to the hospital.

Youth vaping consistently linked to subsequent smoking, marijuana and alcohol use

A review of systematic reviews finds a consistent association between youth vaping and subsequent smoking, marijuana, and alcohol use. Vaping is also linked to various respiratory and mental health issues, including asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, and suicidal outcomes.

COVID-19 linked to increased asthma risk – vaccine offers protection

A comprehensive epidemiological study found that people who had COVID-19 are at increased risk of developing certain inflammatory diseases of the airways, such as asthma and chronic sinusitis. Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 virus appears to reduce this risk.

Study reveals hidden drivers of asthma flare-ups in children

A recent study reveals three distinct inflammatory drivers of asthma exacerbations in children, including epithelial pathways, macrophage-driven inflammation, and mucus hypersecretion. These findings suggest that targeted therapies may not be enough to prevent flare-ups, emphasizing the need for more personalized treatment approaches.

Delving into an underexplored lineage of immune cells

Conventional dendritic cells have been found to originate from both myeloid and lymphoid progenitors, revealing their unique functions and developmental pathways. These lymphoid-derived cDCs exhibit potent functions in immune suppression and allergy induction, and follow diverse developmental pathways.

‘Molecular shield’ placed in the nose may soon treat common hay fever trigger

Researchers have engineered a monoclonal antibody that blocks allergic reactions against common pollen when applied inside the nose of mice, providing new hope for hay fever sufferers. The treatment, known as a 'molecular shield,' acts immediately and locally at the lining of the nose to prevent IgE antibodies from being activated.

Children’s social media activity highlights emotional stress of living with long-term health issues

A study using AI language models analyzed sentiments and emotions expressed by almost 400 pediatric patients on social media, finding that 94% of comments were negative, with sadness and fear prevalent. The study highlights the need for integrated care approaches to support vulnerable young patients managing complex medical conditions.

Inflammatory cells remain in the blood after treatment of severe asthma

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that biological drugs used to treat severe asthma do not completely eradicate inflammatory cells. Researchers discovered an increase in blood levels of these cells during treatment, which could explain why inflammation often returns when treatment is tapered or discontinued. The study aims t...

New digital marker could improve childhood asthma detection

Researchers at IU School of Medicine have developed a new digital marker to predict asthma diagnoses in children using electronic health records. The passive digital marker is more accurate than traditional methods and can be used to enhance early detection rates, reducing the risk of asthma progression in young patients.

How home addresses may predict health consequences of roach, rodent exposure

Researchers used geospatial neighborhood and housing data to predict lung function among children with asthma living in homes with more roaches and rodents. The study highlights the impact of environmental exposures on asthma health disparities among Black and Latino children.

Researchers tested an asthma drug for treating alcoholism. It failed except with this group

Researchers found that ibudilast works better for women who have lower levels of depression and inflammation. The study, which recruited 102 adults with moderate or severe alcohol use disorder, showed that ibudilast did not reduce drinking in most participants, but had a positive effect on female participants.

Mount Sinai experts to present new research on AI models that predict chronic respiratory failure and detect airway obstruction at ATS 2025 International Conference

Researchers will present AI models that predict chronic respiratory failure and detect airway obstruction, with key findings on asthma susceptibility, small airway disease, and lung inflammation. The studies use nasal epithelial gene expression analyses and bronchoscopy to identify potential biomarkers for ICU patient outcomes.

Maternal air pollution exposure worsens asthma severity for offspring

A new mouse study published at the ATS 2025 International Conference found that maternal air pollution exposure during pregnancy can increase asthma risk in adult offspring. The study also discovered lasting epigenetic changes affecting their lungs and immune response, which can persist for generations.

Two CWRU engineering researchers receive early career awards from National Science Foundation

Computer scientist An Wang receives a $1M NSF CAREER grant to leverage cloud computing resources for efficient machine learning model training. Environmental engineer Bridget Hegarty receives a grant to develop safe and effective biocontrol for water systems using bacteriophages.

Study suggests loss of lung capacity begins between the ages of 20 and 25

A study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that lung capacity develops in two phases: rapid growth during childhood and slower growth until peak lung function. Lung function starts to decline after the peak age, contrary to previous models. Persistent asthma and smoking affect lung function differently than thought.

One in ten asthma cases can be avoided with a better urban environment

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that combining air pollution, dense urban development, and limited green spaces increases the risk of asthma. In contrast, a more favorable environment can prevent up to 11.6% of asthma cases, suggesting that urban planning can play a crucial role in reducing the disease.

Exposome Moonshot launching in Washington D.C.

The Human Exposome is a global scientific effort to understand the environmental factors that underpin disease and health. The Exposome Moonshot Forum aims to chart this exposome, providing usable metrics and data points for targeted public health interventions.

Comorbidities associated with adult asthma according to severity: analysis of data from the National Health Insurance Sharing Service

A study analyzing national health insurance data found that severe adult asthma increases the risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. This highlights the importance of considering comorbidities when managing asthma patients.

Real-world evidence links long-term use of oral and inhaled steroids to adrenal insufficiency

Research reveals individuals taking oral steroids for over 3 months are 6 times more likely to be diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency than those treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Long-term users of inhaled steroids also face increased risk without hospitalisations.