New findings may help guide treatment of patients with asthma
A study of 936 asthma patients found that obesity and older age were linked to higher risks of airway closure. Therapies targeting airway closure may be crucial for these patients.
Asthma
Articles tagged with Asthma
Common chest infection puts babies at risk of hospitalization for asthma in preschool years
Researchers from Imperial College London tracked 613,377 babies up to age 5, finding those admitted for bronchiolitis had a fivefold risk of subsequent asthma and respiratory admissions. Breastfeeding, tobacco exposure, and environmental factors contribute to the increased risk.
Exclusive breastfeeding lowers odds of some schoolchildren having eczema
Children who were exclusively breastfed for three months or longer had significantly lower odds of having eczema at age 6. This study found that exclusive breastfeeding may protect children from experiencing extended flare-ups of eczema.
New method identifies which asthma patients respond to systemic corticosteroids
A new computational tool has identified 12 variables that can predict which severe asthma patients are likely to benefit from treatment with systemic corticosteroids. This tool will help physicians alleviate suffering for patients who do not respond well to mainline therapy.
SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2019
Researchers find genetic clues to high rates of asthma in those of African ancestry
A new study has identified areas of chromosomes associated with higher rates of asthma in those of African ancestry. The research used advanced technology to identify loci on chromosome 17q12-21, which may contribute to the increased risk of asthma in this population.
Electronic tool has potential to improve asthma care, study finds
A new electronic decision support tool has shown promise in improving asthma care, with a 45% increase in patients receiving asthma action plans and a 59% increase in asthma control assessments. The system uses data from patient questionnaires to provide personalized recommendations for clinicians.
Asthma pill targets airway muscles to decrease attacks
A new asthma pill has shown promising results in reducing airway muscle and inflammation, potentially leading to improved symptoms and reduced attacks. The investigational drug, Fevipiprant, may also reduce the need for oral steroids, a common treatment for severe asthma.
UCI biomedical engineers develop wearable respiration monitor with children's toy
Researchers created a wearable, disposable respiration monitor with high-fidelity readings using inexpensive sensors from Shrinky Dinks. The device helps track breath rate and volume, aiding asthma and cystic fibrosis patients.
Connection between home energy efficiency and respiratory health in low-income homes
A new study published in Environmental Research found that people living in drafty homes in low-income, urban communities are at a higher risk of respiratory health issues such as asthma. The study revealed that residents in homes with the highest air-exchange rates were more likely to report chronic cough and asthma-like symptoms.
Among Latinos, Puerto Rican children less likely to use their asthma inhalers
A new study published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society found that Puerto Rican children were more than five times as likely as Mexican American children to have poor adherence to asthma control medications. Girls of both ethnic groups were also more likely to have poor or decreasing use of the medications.
Calorie restriction prevents asthma symptoms linked to inflammation in mice
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that calorie restriction prevented asthma symptoms in mice, regardless of diet composition. The study's results add to evidence supporting links between obesity, inflammation, and asthma, highlighting the value of anti-inflammatory drugs in treating asthma symptoms in obese individuals.
Fish oil does not appear to improve asthma control in teens, young adults
A study published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society found that four grams of fish oil per day for six months did not improve asthma control in adolescents and young adults with uncontrolled asthma. The researchers suggested that obesity may cause systemic inflammation, which reduces the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory t...
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 25, 2019
New targeted oral treatments for severe asthma to be studied
Researchers in Leicester are investigating the use of antibiotics to treat certain types of severe asthma, a condition affecting 1 in 20 people with asthma. The study aims to identify patients with specific subtypes of severe asthma and test new oral treatments, including doxycycline and dexpramipexole.
Teens keep active despite asthma or eczema, study finds
Researchers found that teenagers with asthma or eczema had the same levels of physical activity as their peers without these conditions. However, obese teenagers were less active and experienced increased periods of inactivity. The study used data from over 6,400 teenagers aged 12-16.
Racial disparities in asthma related to health care access, environmental factors
A recent study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology analyzed data from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute's Severe Asthma Research Program. The research found that African American patients are more likely to experience emergency hospital visits for asthma and have poorer asthma outcomes due to socioecon...
Mechanism for impaired allergic inflammation in infants may explain hygiene hypothesis
Research suggests that infant mice need a higher dose of bacterial LPS to prevent asthma, while adult mice can tolerate lower doses. This mechanism supports the hygiene hypothesis, which proposes that decreased exposure to microorganisms in childhood leads to increased allergies.
Scientists create most accurate tool yet developed to predict asthma in young children
Researchers developed a decision tool called the Pediatric Asthma Risk Score (PARS) to predict asthma in young children. PARS is 11% more sensitive than existing tools and delivers personalized risk scores.
SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateDec 13, 2018
Lengthy time to conception and fertility treatment might affect child's asthma risk
Children conceived via fertility treatment have up to 42% higher risk of asthma, while number of previous early miscarriages is also associated with increased risk. Research suggests that common factors underlying poorer fertility and recurrent miscarriages may influence asthma risk.
Baby's first cold can last longer depending on nose-dwelling bacteria
Researchers discovered that babies with a diverse range of nasal bacteria tend to recover faster from their first respiratory virus. Conversely, those dominated by certain bacterial families are more likely to experience prolonged symptoms.
Largest pediatric study shows obesity increases asthma risk in children
Researchers analyzed data from over 500,000 children, finding a significant association between obesity and increased asthma incidence. Obesity was identified as a modest risk factor for asthma, with 23-27% of new cases directly attributable to obesity.
Weight likely cause for one-fourth of asthma cases in kids with obesity
A study analyzing health data for over 500,000 children in the US suggests that obesity is a likely cause of approximately one-fourth of asthma cases in children who are obese. The research found that nearly 1 million cases of childhood asthma may be preventable by maintaining a healthy weight.
Particulate matter and asthma medication use
Research suggests a link between PM2.5 exposure and higher daily rescue inhaler use in individuals with asthma. Reducing PM2.5 pollution could result in significant economic benefits, estimated at nearly $350 million annually.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 26, 2018
Environmental exposures early in life modify immune responses
A new PhD thesis from the University of Eastern Finland reveals a link between early life environmental exposures, such as farming and air pollution, and altered immune responses. The study found that farming exposure decreases the risk of allergic diseases, while air pollution increases asthma prevalence in children.
New treatment to protect people with peanut allergies ready for FDA review
A new treatment has been shown to help people with peanut allergies build up a tolerance to the allergen, allowing them to consume small amounts without experiencing severe reactions. The study found that two-thirds of participants were able to tolerate the equivalent of two peanuts per day after nine to 12 months of treatment.
Secondhand marijuana smoke causes asthma symptoms in child allergic to cannabis
Research shows secondhand marijuana smoke can worsen asthma symptoms in children with cannabis allergies, even without direct exposure. After removing cannabis from the home, asthma symptoms improved significantly.
Sucking your baby's pacifier may benefit their health
A Henry Ford Health System study found that babies whose parents cleaned their pacifiers with saliva had lower levels of IgE antibodies, associated with allergies and asthma. The researchers believe healthy oral bacteria may be passed from parents to their children, influencing immune system development.
Caregiver's poor knowledge of asthma means longer hospital stay for child
Children of caregivers with poor asthma knowledge were four times more likely to have a prolonged hospital stay, according to new research. The study found that caregivers who received education on asthma management and inhaler technique showed significant improvements in their knowledge and ability to care for their child.
No link between 'hypoallergenic' dogs and lower risk of childhood asthma
A Swedish study found no correlation between growing up with hypoallergenic breeds and a lower risk of asthma in children. However, female dogs were associated with a 16% lower asthma risk, while living with two or more dogs reduced the risk by 21%.
Rutgers study helps city ban large trucks
A Rutgers University study found significant improvements in air quality after restricting heavy truck traffic on a residential street in Elizabeth, N.J. The research team tracked 60 trucks per hour and found a spike in black carbon from diesel exhaust pollution, which was linked to asthma and other health issues.
Researchers to study drivers of asthma in Puerto Rico
A new study aims to investigate the origins of asthma in Puerto Rico by following 4,000 children from birth through early childhood. The team plans to use genetic techniques to identify biological drivers of disease and biomarkers that may predict outcomes.
Study of 2,000 children suggests London air pollution is restricting lung development
A study of 2,000 children suggests that London's diesel-dominated air pollution is restricting lung capacity, putting them at risk of lifelong breathing disorders. Despite improvements in air quality through the introduction of Low Emission Zones, there was no evidence of a reduction in small lungs or asthma symptoms.
Trial finds diet rich in fish helps fight asthma
A clinical trial found that eating fish twice a week as part of a Mediterranean diet can significantly decrease lung inflammation in children with mild asthma. The study involved 64 children from Greece and showed improved lung function after six months.
Air pollution leads to millions of ER visits for asthma attacks worldwide
A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that air pollution from ozone and fine particulate matter may be responsible for nine to 33 million emergency room visits globally. The research suggests that policies aimed at cleaning up the air can reduce the global burden of asthma.
Polluted city neighborhoods are bad news for asthmatic children
A new study published in Pediatric Research found that children with asthma growing up in polluted NYC neighborhoods need emergency medical treatment more often. The study suggests that these areas may have other environmental factors affecting urgent asthma treatment.
Researchers describe Asthma's effects on airways at the single cell level
A study using single-cell transcriptomics reveals the cellular and functional changes underlying type 2-high asthma, which can lead to more severe disease. The research provides new insights into how airway epithelial cells produce mucus and could inform the development of targeted treatments for asthma and other airway diseases.
Asthma may contribute to childhood obesity epidemic
A USC-led study of over 20,000 European youths found that children with asthma are more likely to become obese. Asthma increases the risk of obesity by 50-66%, especially in those with persistent wheezing symptoms.
UCalgary scientists discover a new way to eliminate allergen-induced asthma attacks
Researchers at UCalgary's Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute and Hotchkiss Brain Institute discovered the nervous system plays a critical role in asthma attacks. By targeting treatment at the carotid bodies, they found that blocking receptors during an asthma attack can eliminate symptoms.
Have asthma and a pet? Re-homing your cat or dog may not be necessary
Researchers analyzed children's asthma management and found that environmental exposures like secondhand smoke and pet ownership were not significant factors in improving asthma control. Once asthma guidelines are followed, these exposures do not impact overall asthma improvement.
Clear the air
A University of Utah engineering study shows that smart controllers for home heating and cooling systems can clean pollution with minimal additional energy costs. The 'SmartAir' setting, which turns on the HVAC fan based on both temperature and air quality, cleaned the air almost as well as continuous operation but used 58% less energy.
Gut fungus exacerbates asthma in antibiotic-treated mice
A non-pathogenic fungus can expand in the intestines of antibiotic-treated mice and enhance the severity of allergic airways disease. The study suggests that alterations in gut microbiota induced by intestinal fungi might be a previously unrecognized but potentially important risk factor for patients with asthma.
What treatable traits predict future asthma attacks?
A study published in Respirology found ten treatable traits predictive of future asthma attacks, including depression and vocal cord dysfunction. The findings may help clinicians tailor treatment plans for patients with severe asthma.
Father's obesity in early puberty doubles asthma-risk for future offspring
Research suggests that weight gain between childhood and puberty increases the risk of developing asthma later in life, including for future generations. The study found no correlation between weight gain before or after puberty, but rather a link to overall inflammation during this critical developmental period.
Green space near home during childhood linked to fewer respiratory problems in adulthood
A new study found that children who have access to green spaces near their homes are less likely to experience respiratory problems as adults. The research, conducted by RHINESSA, analyzed data from over 5,400 participants and found a significant association between exposure to greenness and reduced respiratory symptoms.
Paracetamol use in infancy is linked to increased risk of asthma in some teenagers
A study found that paracetamol use in infancy may increase the risk of asthma in adolescents, particularly those with certain genetic variations of the glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes. Children who took paracetamol more frequently had a higher risk of developing asthma, especially if they carried the GSTP1 Ile/Ile variant.
Children with asthma are less likely to finish school and to work in non-manual occupations
Children with childhood asthma are at a disadvantage in education, leaving them more likely to drop out of university and struggle to enter non-manual occupations.
Cord blood clue to respiratory diseases
Researchers found high immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels among babies born in October and December in Melbourne, indicating a potential link between maternal exposure to grass pollen and increased risk of respiratory diseases. Conversely, being pregnant for an entire grass pollen season may have a protective effect on babies.
People with asthma at higher risk of becoming obese
A new study has found that people with asthma are more likely to become obese, especially if their asthma begins in adulthood or if they have non-allergic asthma. The research, which followed over 8,600 participants for two decades, suggests the relationship between asthma and obesity is more complex than previously thought.
Inhaled steroids may increase risk of nontuberculous mycobacteria lung infections
Researchers found that inhaled steroid use is associated with a higher risk of developing nontuberculous mycobacteria lung infections. The study analyzed medical records of patients diagnosed with NTM lung infections and found that the odds of infection were 2.7 times greater in those who used inhaled steroids.
Researchers identify marker for novel asthma treatments
Researchers have discovered a marker that can help identify patients with severe asthma who are likely to respond well to new treatments. The marker targets inflammatory cells called eosinophils, which play a key role in the condition.
Excessive airway nerves tied to more severe asthma symptoms, study finds
Researchers at OHSU used 3D imaging to investigate airway nerves in asthma. They found that denser nerves are associated with more severe symptoms and increased eosinophils. This new insight could lead to better treatments for asthma.
Growth in first 3 years of life affects respiratory health in children
A new study found that early childhood weight gain velocity and body mass index are associated with lower lung function at age 10. Children who reached peak body mass index later had better lung function and a lower risk of asthma.
Genetics and pollution drive severity of asthma symptoms
Asthma patients with specific genetic profiles exhibit more intense symptoms following traffic pollution exposure. The study suggests that tailoring treatments to individual gene-environment interactions could enhance quality of life for people with asthma.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 31, 2018
More than 40 percent of women with asthma may develop COPD, but risk may be reduced
A study found that nearly 40% of women with asthma may develop COPD, but certain factors such as smoking, obesity, and socioeconomic status may lower this risk. The researchers identified individual risk factors playing a more significant role in the development of COPD overlap syndrome than exposure to air pollution.
Research tip: Caregivers lack medications, knowledge to manage Baltimore children's asthma
A Johns Hopkins study found that fewer than half of Baltimore caregivers for preschool children with asthma can manage their child's chronic condition. The researchers evaluated caregiver preparedness through medication availability, identification, and dosing instructions.
A deeper look at severe asthma yields NET results
A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers models allergic lung inflammation in mice, revealing the role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in triggering and amplifying an allergen-initiated immune response. The findings have implications for designing more precise clinical trials for severe asthma treatment.
The FASEB Journal: Nutrient supplement bar improves lung function in asthmatic adolescents
A small pilot clinical trial shows eating two CHORI-Bars daily for eight weeks improves lung function in obese adolescents with asthma. The study's findings are provocative and suggest a need for larger trials.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJul 19, 2018
Study shows painful eczema symptoms negatively impact quality of life
A new study found that eczema is associated with a worse quality of life than several other chronic illnesses. Moderate and severe eczema were particularly burdensome, causing symptoms like blisters, pain, and sleep disturbance.
Healthy diet reduces asthma symptoms
A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that healthy diets with high consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grain cereals are characterised by better asthma outcomes. Men who ate healthier diets had a 30% lower chance of experiencing asthma symptoms.
What is the association between asthma and atrial fibrillation risk?
Adults with uncontrolled asthma have a moderately increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm. Researchers are unsure of the underlying causes for this association and urge further investigation.
Project aims to improve asthma control in African schoolchildren
A £2 million project aims to improve asthma control in African schoolchildren, with a focus on 3,000 children aged 12-14. The study will use theatre performances to address asthma knowledge and stigma, and assess the barriers to achieving good control.