Articles tagged with Asthma
The new guidelines stress the importance of inhaled corticosteroids for controlling and preventing asthma symptoms. The update also highlights the need for further research on combination therapy, particularly in young children.
Asthma airway remodeling begins in childhood and continues into adulthood, affecting lung function and increasing the risk of respiratory complications. A new study found that 7.4% of children with asthma developed structural abnormalities in their airways at age 18, a rate similar to adults with asthma.
A study found that RSV prevention in premature infants during their first winter of life can lead to better lung function and fewer respiratory issues. The treatment reduced the risk of RSV infections by 85%, resulting in fewer colds, asthma attacks, and allergies.
A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that obesity and smoking significantly increase asthma risk in adults. Women were 94% more likely than men to have asthma, while people in lower socioeconomic groups were 30% more likely to be affected.
A study by the American Thoracic Society found that non-smoking females with and without asthma experience decreased lung function due to secondhand smoke exposure. High levels of cotinine, a marker of secondhand smoke exposure, were associated with lower lung function in these women.
The LODO study investigates whether low-dose theophylline can improve asthma symptoms and reduce airway inflammation. The therapy may also be more affordable, costing as little as one-fifth of popular asthma medications.
Research reveals racial disparities in asthma treatment, with black children experiencing worse symptoms and fewer medication use compared to white and Latino children. Lower income, family size, and single-parent households also contribute to poorer asthma outcomes.
A genomic study has identified 149 genes that are turned on or off during simulated asthma attacks in cynomolgus monkeys. The study uses microarray technology to analyze gene expression changes, providing valuable insights into the genetic regulation of asthma.
A study by National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute's Asthma Clinical Research Network found that low to medium doses of inhaled steroids improve lung function in most asthma patients. However, high doses may not provide additional benefits but increase the risk of adverse effects.
Researchers found that asthma does not increase the risk of having a common cold, but individuals with asthma are more likely to develop severe respiratory symptoms when infected. Rhinovirus infection was also linked to longer-lasting and more severe lower-respiratory-tract symptoms in those with asthma.
A UT Southwestern study has found a link between Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria and asthma, suggesting that lingering infections may cause chronic respiratory issues. The research suggests that treating acute M. pneumoniae infections could help prevent later development of asthma.
Research suggests that air pollution from vehicle emissions may cause new cases of asthma in children who participate in team sports, especially in communities with high ozone levels. This is contrary to conventional wisdom that air pollution worsens existing asthma but does not trigger it.
A US study suggests that playing outdoor team sports in areas of high ozone concentration can increase the risk of developing asthma in children. The research found that children who played three or more sports in high-ozone environments were more than three times as likely to develop asthma compared to those who did not participate.
Researchers developed a new technique, electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA), to produce monodisperse droplets of defined size for inhalation therapy. EHDA produced corticosteroid aerosols in quantities high enough for patient administration, showing promising results for more effective asthma treatment.
A study on preterm birth found that premature infants' lungs develop under different conditions after birth, affecting lung function. Leukotriene antagonists improved treatment for moderate to severe asthma by increasing pulmonary function and reducing symptoms. A personalized oral appliance also showed significant improvement in child...
A large international study found that passive smoking significantly increases the risk of respiratory symptoms, including nocturnal chest tightness and breathlessness. The prevalence of passive smoking in workplaces varied widely across countries, with some areas experiencing as much as 53.8% exposure.
A large-scale study shows that levalbuterol is more effective and produces fewer side effects than racemic albuterol in children. The new formulation contains only the biologically active right isomer of albuterol, making it a valuable alternative for pediatric patients.
Researchers found that asthmatic children from urban environments are not using preventive medications and devices correctly, and are not adhering to NHLBI guidelines during asthma flare-ups. This is particularly concerning given the high risk of developing asthma in African American children.
Undertreated asthma has a significant impact on women's lives, affecting their physical activities, relationships, and overall well-being. Many women report poorly controlled symptoms, anxiety, and worry about their condition.
A team of researchers at Stanford Medicine has discovered a new gene family, the Tim family, that plays a crucial role in asthma development. The link between this gene family and the hepatitis A virus may help explain why asthma rates have increased where hepatitis A infection rates have dropped.
A new study has shown that the flu shot does not trigger asthma attacks in people with moderate to severe asthma. The study included 2,032 children and adults diagnosed with asthma, who received either a real or placebo flu vaccine, with all participants receiving the actual flu vaccine by the end of the study.
The OPTIMA study shows that low-dose budesonide alone reduces the risk of severe asthma exacerbations and poorly controlled days by half in previously untreated patients. Adding formoterol improves symptom control and reduces exacerbations in both previously untreated and corticosteroid-treated patients.
A recent study found that individuals with hookworm infections were half as likely to develop asthma compared to those without the infection. The researchers suggest that hookworms may alter the body's response to allergens, leading to reduced inflammation and increased resistance to asthma.
The Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center is studying the effects of lifestyle interventions such as stretching, breathing exercises, and yoga on managing asthma symptoms. Asthma affects approximately 12 million American adults, resulting in significant healthcare costs.
A study of 4,910 four-year-old twins found that genetic factors account for the largest share of asthma prevalence, with genes contributing 68% and environment accounting for just 13%. Environmental factors such as family diet and air pollution are likely to be much less important than genetic make-up.
A study found that early exposure to a farming environment reduces the risk of childhood asthma and other allergic diseases. Children exposed to farms in their first year of life had lower rates of asthma, hay fever, and atopic sensitization compared to those exposed later.
A new study found that early parenting difficulties are associated with the development of asthma in genetically at-risk children between six and eight years old. Parenting difficulties, including maternal depressed mood and coping problems, were significantly and independently linked to asthma at school age.
A study in Manitoba found that altering drug benefits led to reduced prescriptions for inhaled corticosteroids among children with severe and mild to moderate asthma. Higher-income neighbourhoods were disproportionately affected. The authors emphasize the need for policies not to deter patients from using essential medications.
A long-term study of 150 children reveals that parents' emotional state and coping mechanisms play a significant role in the development of asthma. The research highlights two main risk factors: elevated IgE levels at six months and parenting difficulties, which increase the likelihood of asthma by 2-3 times.
Researchers discovered that fathers' cigarette consumption levels impact children's lung function, with higher levels associated with greater deficits. Non-asthmatic girls showed the greatest declines in pulmonary function tests, suggesting a potential link between paternal smoking and childhood respiratory health.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that premenopausal women using inhaled corticosteroids for persistent asthma experience accelerated bone loss in the hip compared to those not using the medication. The study suggests a potential long-term risk of hip fractures for these women.
The ERS 11th Annual Congress presents first hard evidence on the dangers of passive smoking in adults, highlighting a significant link between exposure and asthma development. Women are particularly at risk due to greater exposure at home and workplace.
A study found that managed care coverage improves the quality of care for children with asthma, reducing the likelihood of unnecessary emergency department visits. Children in managed care plans were more likely to see their primary care physicians before visiting the ER, leading to more appropriate treatment.
Researchers are conducting a study called Prevention of Early Asthma in Kids (PEAK) to explore the potential of early treatment in preventing asthma. The study involves enrolling children aged 2-4 with wheezing episodes and one additional risk factor, taking fluticasone or a placebo twice daily for two years.
Investigators found that children with OSAS had smaller airway volume, larger tonsil and adenoid tissue, which restricts airways. Work-related factors are linked to a higher prevalence of persistent asthma in 29% of males and 17% of females.
Researchers unveil a new technique for analyzing tiny airway biopsies, revealing a new disease suspect in asthma - the NKCC1 gene. The technique quickly measures multiple gene activities, supporting current hypotheses about asthma mechanisms while pointing to an unexpected role in excess mucus secretion.
Researchers found that encasing pillows and mattresses with allergen-proof covers, washing bedding weekly, and vacuuming carpets reduced dust mite allergen concentrations. Dry steam cleaning also lowered allergen levels in upholstered furniture.
Respiratory sounds can precisely determine the level of shortness of breath in asthma patients. A new computer program uses acoustic analysis to detect breathing problems, potentially setting off an alarm during sleep and enabling researchers to study conditions without inducing symptoms.
A study found that high polyunsaturated fat consumption increases the risk of asthma in pre-school children, with a diet rich in omega-6 fatty acids promoting inflammation. Conversely, breastfeeding and having older siblings may offer protection against asthma.
A study found that children who received asthma management training also taught their parents about managing the condition, leading to improved family health behavior. The training program showed modest but notable changes in parents' self-management of their children's asthma.
Dr. Barr will investigate the relationship between rising acetaminophen use and a 20-year increase in asthma prevalence, exploring potential mechanisms behind the association. The research aims to inform treatment strategies and public education about pain medication use.
A study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that asthmatic African Americans receive less high-quality asthma care compared to whites, with disparities in medication use and specialist referrals. The study highlights the need for further investigation into barriers affecting asthma care for minority populations.
A study of 84 Australian children with asthma found that family environment plays a significant role in their experience. Children from stable families with defined roles, rules, and emotional support were less distressed by symptoms.
A study found that using oral steroids to control severe asthma attacks reduced the risk of death from the disease by 90 percent. A written asthma action plan also significantly reduced the risk of death and hospitalization rates. Additionally, African-American women experienced a slower rate of lung function decline with age compared ...
A study of nearly 10,000 children in the UK found that obese children are at greater risk of developing asthma. The researchers discovered a significant association between weight and respiratory symptoms, with the heaviest children more likely to experience wheezing and asthma attacks.
A University of Florida study found that an antibacterial agent in some asthma medications can cause airway constriction, potentially reducing the effectiveness of rescue medicine. The researchers call on parents and healthcare professionals to choose products without benzalkonium chloride.
The American Thoracic Society recommends enhanced contact investigation to identify additional close contacts of active TB patients. Researchers also found that eliminating occupational exposure can prevent adult-onset asthma. Furthermore, children exposed to maternal smoking in utero show significant lung function deficits.
Children of heavy smokers are at risk of inadequate asthma treatment due to decreased parental awareness and reluctance to quit smoking. Research found that the more heavily parents smoked, the fewer visits were made to healthcare services for asthma symptoms.
Researchers found that obese individuals were twice as likely to be diagnosed with asthma, but not more responsive airways. Underweight individuals, on the other hand, experienced increased airway responsiveness and reduced lung function.
Research suggests that heavy smoking by parents can lead to reduced visits to the doctor for asthma in their children. The study found a significant decrease in hospital visits when parents reported higher levels of smoking at home, particularly if the mother smoked. Age and family size also influenced visit frequency.
Researchers found that mouse allergen is a significant contributor to childhood asthma in urban areas, with 18% of children allergic to mice experiencing more severe asthma. Doctors recommend testing for mouse allergy and recommending aggressive extermination of mice.
A new study by UC Berkeley researchers reveals that premature birth and low birthweight significantly exacerbate asthma symptoms in children when exposed to smog. Children born prematurely or with low birthweight are more likely to experience severe wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath on days with high air pollution levels.
A systematic review of herbal medicines for asthma treatment found limited conclusive evidence, with most trials of poor quality and potential side effects. Researchers conclude that properly designed studies are urgently needed to assess the safety and treatment value of herbal medicines.
Children from poor, minority communities are more likely to have asthma and suffer severe symptoms. A recent study found that almost half of high-absentee children self-reported asthma despite having worse symptoms compared to low-absentees.
Research highlights significant declines in lung function growth from air pollution and long-term effects of asthma on lung capacity. Studies found that children exposed to air pollution showed a 0.9% decline in annual lung function ability, while those with long-standing asthma experienced irreversible reductions in lung function.
Children with severe asthma are at risk of bone loss due to inadequate dietary calcium. Taking a daily calcium supplement can help prevent this condition. Researchers found that only 5-10% of children at the study site were taking a calcium supplement, highlighting the need for increased awareness and supplementation.
A study by the NIH/NHLBI confirms inhaled corticosteroids provide superior asthma control in children with mild to moderate asthma. However, growth rate was slightly reduced in the first year, but this effect was short-term and temporary.
A study by the Childhood Asthma Management Program Research Group found that inhaled steroids are a safe and effective treatment option for mild asthma, reducing hospitalizations and urgent care visits. The medication also showed no significant long-term adverse effects on growth or development.
A six-year study found inhaled steroids to be safe and effective for children with mild-to-moderate asthma, reducing hospitalizations and emergency room visits by up to 43%. The treatment also improved lung growth and reduced symptoms, contradicting previous concerns about long-term risks.
A study found that caregivers' problem-solving skills and positive expectations have a modest but potential clinical importance in reducing asthma symptoms. Caregivers with superior problem-solving skills helped children wheeze for fewer hours, while positive expectations improved functioning ability.