Research on asthma and respiratory disease. Covers brain-structure links, prevention trials, weight-loss drugs, and exercise for symptom control.
Research reveals that babies born with higher levels of cadmium may be at increased risk of developing childhood asthma and allergies. Cadmium exposure has been found to interfere with immune systems and increase allergic reactions.
New research challenges assumption that asthma is a significant risk factor for severe COVID-19 hospitalization and intubation, finding lower prevalence rates among hospitalized patients compared to the general population.
A placebo-controlled clinical trial found that vitamin D supplements did not prevent severe asthma attacks in at-risk children. The study, led by Juan C. Celedón, followed nearly 200 children with moderately low vitamin D levels for three years and showed no benefit from the supplements.
A new smartphone app can predict asthma deterioration by measuring night-time coughing, indicating worsening symptoms. The study found a strong correlation between increased night-time coughing and subsequent worsening of asthma symptoms, suggesting the app could be a useful tool for monitoring asthma.
Research presented at the European Respiratory Society International Congress shows that babies exposed to levels of air pollution within EU standards develop poorer lung function as children and teenagers. Long-term exposure to air pollution is also linked to a higher risk of developing asthma in adults, according to a second study.
Research found a 6% reduction in excessive prescribing of reliever inhalers after an electronic alert was introduced, with also increases in asthma reviews and reductions in exacerbations. The study suggests the alert prompts a review of patients who may have poor asthma control.
Researchers have identified master regulator genes that causally regulate key biological processes underlying asthma. These genes provide a novel path forward for uncovering mechanisms and developing novel therapies for asthma. The study also identified nasal gene signatures for mild, moderate, and severe persistent asthma.
A study published by The BMJ found that children exposed to high levels of fine air pollutants (PM2.5) are more likely to develop asthma and persistent wheezing. Higher levels of PM2.5, as well as exposure to other pollutants, were associated with an increased risk of developing these conditions.
Researchers found that two common genetic variations in the KIF3A gene impair skin barrier function, leading to increased water loss and development of atopic dermatitis. Genetic testing could help identify infants at risk, potentially preventing eczema and related allergic diseases.
A review of 34 studies found that ß2-agonists improved anaerobic exercise performance by 5% in athletes without asthma, with significant benefits for sprint and strength performances. The oral route was more effective than inhalation, but the impact of WADA-approved versions remains uncertain.
Research from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found a link between elevated BPA levels and increased asthma symptoms in low-income children. The study also did not find a statistically significant association between BPS and BPF levels and asthma symptoms.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that stepping down asthma medication doses did not increase exacerbations and can significantly reduce costs. The research suggests that clinicians may be prescribing higher levels of treatment than is clinically indicated, highlighting the potential for cost savings.
Researchers have found that a history of rape is associated with dysfunctional breathing and late-onset asthma diagnosis, particularly in women. Nearly 20% of women reported being raped, and those who experienced trauma were more likely to develop respiratory problems at 38 years old.
Researchers at University of Huddersfield found that the benefits of using inhalers and nebulisers containing steroids outweigh the risks despite COVID-19 concerns. The study confirms that patients with asthma or COPD can continue using their regular medicines, including steroids.
A new study found that mothers' traits, such as those present in the uterus during pregnancy, may increase the risk of allergies and asthma in children. By age 6, both parents presented the same risk, suggesting non-genetic factors play a role.
A new study found that teenagers who go to bed late have a higher risk of developing asthma and allergic rhinitis symptoms. Researchers suspect that disruptions to melatonin production due to digital screen exposure may be the cause, and are urging clinicians to ask about sleep habits when diagnosing allergies and asthma.
Rutgers researchers conclude that asthma sufferers are no worse affected by SARS-CoV-2 than non-asthmatic individuals, despite older age and comorbid conditions being reported risk factors for COVID-19. Further study is needed to understand the physiological basis of this phenomenon.
A study published in ERJ Open Research found that teenagers who prefer to sleep later have a higher risk of developing asthma and allergic rhinitis. The research suggests that the body's internal clock plays a significant role in respiratory health, with late-sleepers more likely to experience symptoms.
A new study reveals that the common asthma drug salbutamol may offer potential as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. It is effective at reducing the accumulation of insoluble fibres of the tau protein, which are found in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health identified a new allergy pathway triggered by house dust mites, which can lead to asthma and allergic rhinitis. The study found that blocking this pathway may be a potential preventive or treatment strategy against these disorders.
Research identifies highly motivated, altruistic individuals as key players in online health communities, supporting the management of long-term conditions. These superusers face difficulties but demonstrate autonomy and a desire to help others, highlighting their importance in healthcare.
A new study has found that children with developmental disabilities have a higher risk of developing asthma. The study, which analyzed data from over 71,000 families, showed that ethnic minority children were particularly at risk of dual diagnoses of asthma and disability.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have uncovered a previously unknown subset of T cells that may control allergic immune reactions and asthma. These cells, which express an 'interferon response signature,' may dampen the activation of helper T cells and reduce inflammation.
A recent study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that smoking by pregnant mothers increases the risk of asthma in their offspring between ages 31 and 46. The risk is higher for those with a history of respiratory symptoms or the RUNX-1 susceptibility gene, highlighting early airway vulnerability.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has released new guidelines for the management of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a chronic inflammatory disease of the esophagus triggered by allergens. Topical steroids are recommended as a first-line treatment, while proton pump inhibition, diet therapy, and esophageal dilation are ...
Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a new understanding of asthma medicines through x-ray CT scanning, revealing the microstructure of individual particles. This innovation could lead to improved asthma medications and better quality control.
Researchers at Edith Cowan University have developed a way to detect and quantify wheat proteins that trigger intestinal inflammation and chronic ailments. This breakthrough has resulted in a reference map of wheat proteins across diverse varieties and an innovative technique to measure specific proteins.
Critical Path Institute (C-Path) has been awarded a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) contract to develop novel clinical outcome assessments for pediatric asthma. The project aims to create patient-focused drug development tools for children with asthma.
After four Louisville, Kentucky, coal-fired power plants either retired coal or installed stricter emissions controls, local residents' asthma symptoms and related hospitalizations and ED visits dropped dramatically. The study found nearly 400 avoided hospitalizations and ED visits each year across Jefferson County.
Researchers found that a ketogenic diet significantly reduced inflammation and mucus production in asthmatic mice. The diet's effect was attributed to its ability to slow down the division activity of immune cells, which play a central role in asthma symptoms.
A new study finds that using bedroom air filters can significantly improve breathing in asthmatic children. Consistent daily use of filters for two weeks reduced airway resistance, lung inflammation, and increased airway elasticity. The findings suggest that the filters may help prevent asthma flare-ups without costly medications.
A new review published in Nutrition Reviews suggests that a plant-based diet can help prevent and manage asthma. The study found that consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other high-fiber foods can be beneficial for asthma patients, whereas dairy products and high-fat foods can exacerbate symptoms.
Research finds that high levels of iron build-up in lung cells worsen asthma symptoms and lower lung function. The study suggests a link between iron absorption, immune system responses, and asthma severity.
Researchers found that Aspergillus molds attack the lung's epithelial cells, causing a leaky barrier and triggering an overreaction to future mold exposure. The TRPV4-calcium pathway plays a key role in this response, suggesting new avenues for preventing asthma.
A recent study found that children who received federal rental assistance had better asthma outcomes, including lower rates of diagnosis and emergency department visits. The research suggests that stable housing can improve lung function and overall health in children with asthma.
A study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice found that children with food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) are at a higher risk of developing other allergic conditions. Despite this, the researchers did not find a direct causal link between FPIES and these other allergies.
A recent study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are associated with a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Women with asthma were 53% more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while those with COPD were 89% more likely.
A study of 1,177 mother-infant pairs found exclusive breastfeeding for the first 3 months linked with a lower risk of respiratory allergies and asthma. Breastfeeding duration was insufficient to reduce the risk if not accompanied by family history of asthma.
A breakthrough discovery by Trinity College Dublin researchers identifies Caspase-11 as a key driver of allergic inflammation in asthma. This finding holds great promise for developing new therapeutic options to treat the debilitating disease.
A study analyzing global data found that chronic respiratory diseases have increased by 18% between 1990 and 2017, with the poorest regions experiencing the greatest disease burden. Smoking, environmental pollution, and body weight were identified as key risk factors for deaths and disability.
Research found early exposure to household cleaning products increases risk of childhood asthma and wheeze by age 3, with scented products posing the highest risk. The study suggests avoiding or reducing use of sprays and fragrance-based cleaners to minimize a child's exposure and reduce the risk of respiratory issues.
A new study finds that young infants exposed to common household cleaning products are more likely to develop childhood wheeze and asthma by three years of age. The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, suggests that chemicals in cleaning products can damage respiratory tract cells, increasing the risk of asthma.
A new study found that Prescription Drug List (PDL) coverage for preventive asthma medications can reduce financial burden and increase medication adherence. However, barriers to PDL use include lack of awareness, exclusions, and inconsistent benefits.
A new study by ISGlobal found that nearly half of all childhood asthma cases in Barcelona are attributable to air pollution. The study highlights the impact of air pollution on socioeconomic groups, particularly the less disadvantaged children.
Scientists have discovered the detailed structure of two calcium homeostasis modulator (CALHM) pores, which play a crucial role in sensing taste and controlling airways in lungs. The findings suggest these pores are essential for cell health and may lead to new therapies for Alzheimer's and depression.
Redlining practices in the 1930s are associated with higher rates of emergency department visits due to asthma, with a 39% increased risk in previously redlined neighbourhoods compared to non-redlined areas. Historical policies may have shaped neighbourhood development and air quality, contributing to asthma incidence.
A new study has identified a genetic anomaly associated with poor response to glucocorticoid asthma treatment. The research found that patients with the HSD3B1(1245A) variant are less likely to respond to treatment and may develop severe asthma.
Researchers identified a variant in the HSD3B1 gene associated with resistance to glucocorticoids in severe asthma patients. The study suggests that genetic testing may help tailor treatment strategies for individuals with severe asthma, offering new hope for improved management of this chronic condition.
A new educational outreach training package has shown effectiveness in managing respiratory diseases like COPD and asthma in Brazil. The Practical Approach to Care Kit (PACK) provides basic, cost-effective ways to diagnose and treat these common, severe diseases.
A new study suggests that lowering exposure to mouse allergens can lead to improved lung growth in asthmatic children living in low-income neighborhoods. The research found a strong association between mouse allergen exposure and lung function growth, with potential implications for long-term lung health and even longevity.
A recent study found that consistent use of nasal saline and corticosteroid sprays can significantly reduce the need for antibiotics and oral steroids in individuals with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This reduction can lead to fewer side effects associated with these medications, such as gastric issues and mood disturbances. By using ...
Researchers found that children with mild to moderate asthma who experienced worsening symptoms had distinct bacterial groups in their upper airways, while those with well-controlled asthma had different bacteria. Altering the airway microbiome could potentially help patients with asthma.
A new report published in the American Thoracic Society's journal shows that reductions in air pollution have fast and dramatic impacts on health-outcomes, including decreases in all-cause morbidity. The study found improvements in health were striking, with significant benefits among non-smokers.
Researchers used specialized MRI techniques to follow patients with mild to moderate asthma over six years, finding consistent ventilation defects that persist over time. The studies refute the long-held belief that these defects are random and widespread, opening up opportunities for patient-specific treatments.
Research published in the European Respiratory Journal found that women with severe asthma symptoms during pregnancy are at higher risk of pre-eclampsia, high blood pressure, and low birth weight. Babies born to these mothers are also more likely to have respiratory issues and congenital abnormalities.
A UMass Lowell professor has received a $1 million grant to advance his work on reducing asthma among low-income seniors. The program will install portable air filtration units in apartments with gas stoves to improve health outcomes.
A new study shows an association between a family history of cancer and childhood asthma diagnosis in over 20% of children, highlighting the importance of extra asthma screening efforts.
Allergists warn that social media misinformation can lead to incorrect medical decisions for people with food allergies. Dr. David Stukus notes that online 'cures' and at-home testing are often unproven and misleading, while reputable sources should be consulted instead.
A recent study by the American College of Allergy and Asthma found that most pediatric allergy patients are satisfied with telemedicine visits for allergies and asthma. Among surveyed parents, 37% were more satisfied, while 63% reported equal satisfaction, indicating a positive experience with telemedicine appointments.
A school-based telehealth program has been shown to reduce emergency department visits for children with asthma living in a rural and underserved region of South Carolina. The study found that children with access to the program were 21% less likely to visit the ED for their asthma.