Articles tagged with Asthma
Only 14.5% of adult patients with moderate or severe asthma are prescribed the recommended Single Maintenance and Reliever Therapy (SMART) combination inhaler regimen. Older age and Medicare insurance are associated with not being prescribed SMART, suggesting providers may resist changing treatment regimens for these groups.
Replacing diesel school buses with electric ones can yield up to $247,600 in climate and health benefits per individual bus, according to a new study. The benefits include reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower rates of adult mortality and childhood asthma.
A world-first clinical trial found that finding and treating people with undiagnosed asthma or COPD improves their health and reduces healthcare visits. The study, which involved 508 patients, showed that those treated by a lung specialist and educator averaged fewer healthcare visits and improved symptoms compared to usual care.
Researchers at UTHealth Houston found a significant link between e-cigarette use and earlier age of asthma onset in U.S. adults. Adults who reported e-cigarette use in the past 30 days were 252% more likely to develop asthma earlier than those who did not use e-cigarettes.
Researchers found a significant relationship between insomnia, depression, and obstructive sleep apnea in people with asthma, leading to poor asthma control. Regular screening for sleep quality and co-existing mood disorders can help improve overall quality of life.
A new study estimates that gas stove use in U.S. households may be responsible for up to 200,000 childhood asthma cases annually, with high levels of nitrogen dioxide exposure also causing thousands of deaths. The research found that even electric stoves produce no NO2, and that ventilation is key to reducing pollutant exposures.
The American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine has released the ATS 2024 International Conference Abstracts, featuring research on heat exposure and RSV among other topics.
A study led by Emily Skeen, MD, found a strong correlation between neighborhood environmental and social conditions and the likelihood of exacerbation-prone asthma among children. The researchers used the Child Opportunity Index to predict the risk of severe asthma in urban areas.
A University of California, Riverside study found that communities in unincorporated areas lack basic critical infrastructure, including healthcare access. Caregivers perceive U.S.-based physicians as not providing sufficient information, while Mexican-based physicians are seen as offering better care.
A team of scientists has identified a specific gene expression pattern associated with an increased risk of childhood asthma. By understanding this mechanism, they aim to develop novel drugs that can correct the defense defect and prevent the progression of the disease.
A large study of over 27,000 pediatric patients found that SARS-COV-2 infection does not increase the risk of asthma development. However, children with known risk factors for asthma were more likely to associate with new SARS-COV-2 diagnoses.
Researchers have identified TL1A, an alarmin molecule, as a key trigger for allergic reactions in respiratory diseases like asthma and rhinitis. The molecule cooperates with interleukin-33 to stimulate immune cells, leading to inflammation and treatment targets are being explored.
Climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss are damaging our immune systems, increasing the risk of diseases like asthma and cancer. Improving the environment offers effective protection and can have a powerful return on investment, saving $3 in healthcare costs for every $1 spent on mitigation.
Scientists at King's College London discovered that limiting damage from an asthma attack could stop the disease by blocking a process that causes epithelial cell death. The findings suggest that preventing this damage could also prevent long-term inflammation, wound healing, and infections in asthma sufferers.
A researcher at the University of Arizona is using a $750,000 NIH grant to develop methodology for reducing asthma risks among nurses. Preliminary survey data suggest that nurses prioritize lower asthma risks over increased infection risks.
A new study by UT researchers links air pollution in Austin neighborhoods to increased asthma-related emergency room visits, particularly among Black and Latinx residents. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate pollution in high-asthma-burden neighborhoods.
A study by Washington State University found that exposure to multiple air pollutants was associated with asthma symptoms among elementary school children. The researchers identified 25 combinations of air pollutants linked to asthma, with one group from a lower-income neighborhood experiencing higher exposure levels.
A new study quantifies the significant health impacts of oil and gas flaring in the US, resulting in over 700 premature deaths and 73,000 asthma exacerbations annually. The research highlights the need for stronger controls on emissions from this sector to improve public health and mitigate climate change.
A study of 5,279 children found that early-life exposure to air pollution significantly increases the risk of developing asthma by early and middle childhood. The study highlights the need for targeted environmental interventions and greater health equity in urban communities.
A study of 236,506 patients found that poorly controlled asthma generates more greenhouse gas emissions than well-controlled asthma. The excess emissions are equivalent to those from over 124,000 homes in the UK each year, with most coming from inappropriate SABA use.
A new study by Purdue University finds that cooking on a gas stove can emit more nanocluster aerosol into the air than vehicles running on gas or diesel. This tiny particle pollution could increase the risk of developing asthma and other respiratory illnesses, especially for children.
The American Academy of Otolaryngology has released a new clinical practice guideline supporting clinicians with evidence-based recommendations on immunotherapy for inhalant allergies. The guideline provides 12 key action statements to guide treatment, aiming to optimize patient care and reduce unnecessary variation in management.
Researchers optimized polygenic risk scores using ancestrally diverse genomic data to improve accuracy across diverse populations. The recalibrated tests provided a more accurate assessment of disease risk for individuals with varied ancestral backgrounds.
The Changing High-Risk Asthma in Memphis through Partnership (CHAMP) program significantly decreased healthcare use related to asthma by addressing access to care, fragmented care, and social needs. After one year of enrollment, results showed a 48% reduction in ED visits, 68% reduction in inpatient and observation visits.
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor is highly correlated with various aging hallmarks, including mitochondrial abnormalities and cellular senescence. AhR signaling regulates airway inflammation in asthma, suggesting its crucial role in regulating asthma phenotypes.
Children and young adults with allergies or eczema who experience difficulty swallowing may have eosinophilic esophagitis, a chronic inflammatory disease. The condition can cause injury and narrowing of the throat, and its incidence is rising in North America and Europe.
High school students who use cannabis are more likely to develop asthma, with prevalence increasing with frequency of use. The study, published in Pediatric Pulmonology, analyzed data from the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System and found a significant association between cannabis use and asthma.
A recent study by researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found a significant link between cannabis use and current asthma prevalence among US adolescents and adults. The study analyzed data from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, finding that individuals who reported cannabis use in the past ...
The ATS 2024 International Conference in San Diego will feature scientific sessions and expert interviews on the latest developments in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. The conference will cover key subjects such as COVID-19, asthma, COPD, and air pollution.
A groundbreaking study reveals indoor metabolites as key indicators in asthma and allergic rhinitis. Homes with diseased children had higher levels of mycotoxins and synthetic chemicals, while healthy homes were enriched with beneficial microbes and metabolites.
Suicide rates in the US increased across all racial groups between 1999 and 2020, with highest rates among White people and American Indian/Alaska Native persons. Firearms and hanging were the top methods used, with a sharp increase in hangings among women.
Researchers have discovered that immune cells play a crucial role in directing the growth of human lung tissue during development, revolutionizing our understanding of early lung development. The findings also suggest that early immune disturbances could manifest as pediatric lung disease.
A recent study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology examines the effects of climate change on various allergic conditions, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, and seasonal allergies. The research suggests that environmental warming can lead to longer-lasting pollen seasons and increased T2 inflammation.
A landmark study found that 92% of patients with severe asthma can safely reduce inhaled steroid dose and more than 60% can stop all use, minimizing side effects like osteoporosis, diabetes, and cataracts. The SHAMAL study used biologic therapy benralizumab to control severe asthma without steroids.
A recent study published in Annals of Family Medicine explores how technology is changing medical practice, including the use of AI-driven tools to effectively diagnose patients. The study also examines the interplay between fulfillment of basic psychological needs at work and technology use in maintaining clinician well-being.
A new study found that an AI-aided home stethoscope can efficiently detect asthma exacerbation in patients of all ages, including children under 5 years old. The device records and analyzes respiratory sounds, providing valuable information for parents and caregivers to identify symptoms early on.
A recent study analyzed asthma mortality rates in China and the US from 1990 to 2019, revealing substantial differences in mortality rates and risk factors. The study found that smoking was a leading risk factor for asthma mortality in China, while high body mass index (BMI) was a larger public health challenge in the US.
The November issue of CHEST journal features cutting-edge research on asthma, COPD, diffuse lung disease, and thoracic oncology. A new guideline provides updated recommendations for patients with stable COPD, while home spirometry is shown to be less consistent than clinic spirometry in monitoring lung function in patients with asthma.
Dr. Gailen Marshall was installed as president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), succeeding Dr. James Tracy who was elected as president-elect. Dr. Marshall is a renowned allergist and immunologist with extensive experience in clinical practice, research, and academia.
A survey found that 42% of primary care physicians are unaware of biologic treatments for asthma, and 82% do not get necessary labs to determine treatment options. This lack of knowledge can lead to delayed referrals to asthma specialists and reduced effectiveness in managing symptoms.
A review of 15 years' worth of data found that prenatal vitamin D supplementation reduced rates of asthma and wheezing in children compared to standard prenatal multivitamin. Vitamin D levels during pregnancy were associated with a 50% reduction in asthma and wheezing.
New studies presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Annual Scientific Meeting highlight the dangers of excess mold on individuals with asthma. Effective methods for getting rid of mold and airborne allergens include HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, and UV-based technology.
The Allergist's Foundation awards grants to support innovative projects addressing health disparities in underserved communities. Six grantees presented their work at the ACAAI National Scientific Meeting, focusing on topics such as cannabis education, food allergy management, and asthma-related outcomes.
A study found that language difficulties lead to underdiagnosis of allergic conditions like asthma and eczema in children who speak a language other than English. A case report highlights the risks of pharmacy translation software interfering with prescription filling, causing delays in securing life-saving medications.
A systematic review of prospective studies found that individuals with asthma or rhinitis may be at increased risk of developing long-term symptoms associated with COVID-19. The evidence for these associations was uncertain, highlighting the need for further research.
A large study of 91,460 mother-offspring pairs found no link between prenatal corticosteroid and beta-2 adrenergic agonist exposure and offspring neurodevelopmental issues. The findings suggest these medications are safe for pregnant individuals with asthma.
Researchers found that neighborhoods with better socioeconomic and educational opportunities had lower rates of asthma-related emergency department visits among children under five years old. This suggests that improving social determinants of health in areas with high asthma morbidity may help reduce childhood asthma rates.
Researchers identify immune cells responsible for some hard-to-treat asthma cases, particularly in men who develop asthma later in life. These cells can cause severe inflammatory responses and do not respond to treatment.
Researchers identify cytotoxic CD4+ tissue-resident memory T cells as potential asthma triggers, particularly in older male patients. These cells can cause severe inflammatory responses and make treatment challenging.
Researchers at UCSF found a feedback loop between immune protein IL-31 and nerve cells, which dials back nearby inflammation and promotes skin healing. This discovery could lead to new treatments for conditions like eczema, allergies, and asthma by targeting the nervous system's role in regulating the immune response.
Researchers analyzed UK data to identify patterns of illnesses in individuals leading up to a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. High blood pressure, respiratory tract infections, heart conditions, and asthma were commonly observed, suggesting earlier diagnosis may be possible.
A recent study found that black children with asthma are more likely to receive severe treatment, including breathing treatments, but less likely to be transported to the hospital compared to their white peers. The study highlights the need for improved care and health equity in managing pediatric chronic asthma.
A new study from Texas A&M University finds an association between vaping and asthma in US adolescents who have never smoked conventional tobacco products. The study highlights the need for strategies to tackle e-cigarette use and its adverse health effects.
The September issue of the CHEST journal features research on long COVID, including a review on exercise pathophysiology in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Postacute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2. Original studies also explore asthma treatment with albuterol-budesonide inhalers and sleep therapy using oronasal masks.
A recent study has found that particular combinations of bacteria in day care dust are linked to an increased risk of wheezing in young children. Researchers identified four categories of microbiota, one of which was associated with a higher incidence of wheezing in children under three years old.
A panel of experts has defined clinical remission in asthma treatment, requiring six criteria met over 12 months. The definition aims to set an aspirational goal for prolonged control and optimize medication adherence.
A University of Houston study found that most of Houston's ozone exceedance is due to transported pollutants from the central and northern US, while local photochemistry contributes to elevated ozone production. The research highlights the importance of reducing emissions at the Houston Ship Channel to mitigate future ozone pollution.
Research shows city living, day care attendance, damp homes, and traffic pollution increase the risk of chest infections in young children. Breastfeeding reduces this risk. Urban environments also affect immune systems before exposure to illnesses.
Babies with more mature gut microbiota at one year old are less likely to develop allergy-related wheeze or asthma. The study, which followed 1074 babies from birth to four years old, found that increased maturity of the gut microbiota was associated with a lower risk of these conditions.
Research found that women exposed to air pollution give birth to smaller babies, with PM2.5 and other pollutants associated with average reductions in birth weight. However, living in greener areas was linked to slightly higher birth weights, suggesting a potential mitigation effect.