Respiratory Disorders

Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network expands to 62 centers

Visual measure of illness perception paints a picture of quality of life

A new study suggests that a visual measure of illness perception can effectively convey symptom-related quality of life for patients with chronic lung illnesses. The study found that patients' visual perceptions of their lung disease were equally effective as standard questionnaires and test results in predicting quality of life.

Aging immune systems show reduced ability to clear tuberculosis during treatment

Exercise can help people quit smoking—and even a single workout may cut cravings fast

UT San Antonio awarded $44 million NIH contract to advance landmark RURAL Cohort Study

The RURAL Cohort Study aims to understand why residents of rural communities experience higher rates of heart, lung, and blood-related diseases, as well as shorter life expectancy and less-than-optimal overall health outcomes. The study uses a custom-built mobile examination unit to bring research directly to the community doorstep.

American Thoracic Society announces landmark initiative to improve diagnosis of bronchiectasis across the United States

The American Thoracic Society has launched a quality improvement initiative to tackle the underdiagnosis of bronchiectasis in the US. The study aims to investigate the scope of the problem and drive meaningful change in how the disease is identified and managed.

Johns Hopkins researchers deepen understanding of asthma airway inflammation

Johns Hopkins researchers have identified a club cell-specific role for the protein RhoA in asthma airway inflammation. The study demonstrates how RhoA can be selectively targeted to prevent asthma-related complications, and offers new details on a potential cell-specific therapeutic target.

Tunnel workers report being exposed to significant silica dust risks: research survey

A national survey of Australian tunnel construction workers found significant silica dust exposure risks, with many reporting barriers to effective dust control measures. The study calls for stronger regulatory enforcement and oversight to prevent preventable disease in the high-risk industry.

Blocking two proteins reverses lung scarring in pre-clinical study

Researchers identified blocking ID1 and ID3 as a promising therapeutic strategy to halt and reverse lung scarring in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The approach showed significant reduction in lung scarring and improvement in lung function across multiple experimental systems.

Fewer surgeries, more complex cases in the future for pediatric lung transplantation

The number of pediatric lung transplants is expected to decline as highly effective therapies for cystic fibrosis reduce the need for transplantation. Complex cases with multi-system disease and severe cardiopulmonary compromise are on the rise, requiring highly specialized teams and close collaboration.

Improving oral care more than halves hospital-acquired pneumonia risk, major trial finds

A landmark trial presented at ESCMID Global 2026 finds that improving oral hygiene for hospital patients reduces the risk of non-ventilator-associated hospital-acquired pneumonia (NV-HAP) by 60%. The study, involving over 8,000 patients, shows a substantial improvement in oral care practices among hospital patients.

NTU Singapore, SUSTech and pharmaceutical firm Lipigon develop inhaled therapy to reduce lung damage from severe infections

Researchers developed an inhaled treatment to reduce lung inflammation and fluid build-up after severe infections. The therapy targets Angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) and showed promise in preclinical studies.

Quitting tobacco could give major economic uplift to 20 million + households in India

A study estimates that quitting tobacco could give a major economic uplift to over 20 million households in India, with the greatest impact felt in rural areas and among the poorest households. The analysis suggests that these households would receive a significant boost in income, potentially moving up one or two economic classes.

New study clears the way for improving devices and treatment for respiratory disorders

A recent study published in Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology found that breathing therapy devices don't affect all parts of the airway equally, with some areas experiencing stronger pressure and friction. The research provides valuable insights into how to improve device settings for patients with respiratory disorders.

Excess weight in early adulthood linked to higher risk of premature death

A new study found that maintaining a healthy weight from early adulthood is associated with lower risks of premature death from various diseases. Excess weight at 25 years old has lasting effects on mortality risk, independent of subsequent weight changes.

Inuit recommendations to address high rates of tuberculosis in Nunavik, Quebec

Inuit communities in Nunavik, Quebec, are facing a devastating tuberculosis epidemic, with rates 1000 times higher than non-Inuit populations. The study's findings highlight the need for increased healthcare resourcing and community-led initiatives to address this crisis.

GLP-1 receptor agonists and noncardiometabolic outcomes

A meta-analysis of GLP-1 receptor agonist studies found potential safety signals for gastrointestinal side effects, while some evidence suggested a link to reduced respiratory disease risk. Further research is needed to confirm the latter association.

Elucidating the functional dynamics of DNASE1L2 intron retention in tuberculosis progression

Researchers identify DNASE1L2 intron retention as a biomarker for TB progression and reveal its role in regulating inflammation. The study shows that upregulation of DNASE1L2-IR promotes host clearance of pathogen DNA, while downregulation weakens this antibacterial defense mechanism.

Exercise harder, not just longer, to reduce risk of disease and death

Research found that people who spend a higher proportion of their total physical activity doing vigorous activity have substantially lower risks of all eight serious health conditions. The benefits of vigorous activity remained even when the amount of time was modest.

This could be why COVID and flu are so dangerous to the elderly

A new study by UC San Francisco reveals that aging lung tissue can lead to catastrophic immune dysregulation, causing elderly individuals to become severely ill. The research suggests that targeting the damaged spiral of inflammaging could provide a promising therapeutic target for treating age-related respiratory diseases.

Pediatric investigation study develops guidelines for managing recurrent wheezing in children

A new set of evidence-based clinical guidelines has been developed to manage recurrent wheezing in infants and toddlers. The guidelines recommend standardized protocols for diagnosing and treating the condition, including laboratory tests and type 2 inflammatory disease testing.

Add these scientific sessions and the ATS AI Lab to your media coverage

The ATS 2026 International Conference will feature the ATS AI Lab Exposition Space, highlighting advancements in AI in healthcare. Keynote speakers Robert M. Wachter and Laurah Turner will discuss AI's impact on medical education and its future.

European Region misses 1 in 5 TB cases: WHO Europe and ECDC publish new joint surveillance report

The European Region is struggling to detect and treat tuberculosis, with 1 in 5 cases going undiagnosed or unreported. Drug-resistant strains are also a major concern, with the region accounting for a disproportionate share of global cases.

Clinician perspectives on the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation decision-making process

Decisions on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for severe respiratory failure rely heavily on clinical judgments rather than objective guidelines. Variability in decision-making may lead to inconsistent allocation of this life-supporting treatment. The study aims to improve ECMO accessibility and equity.

UK study finds no added benefit of surfactant treatment for babies with severe bronchiolitis

A UK-led clinical trial found that surfactant treatment offers no benefit for infants on life support with severe bronchiolitis. The treatment was designed to improve recovery for critically ill babies, but the evidence does not support this.

New study reveals spleen-to-lung neutrophil axis orchestrates antiviral defense

A recent study has uncovered a dynamic spleen-to-lung neutrophil axis that operates during antiviral defense, challenging traditional views of pulmonary neutrophil origin. The study found that splenic neutrophils migrate to the lung, replenishing local pools and participating in innate immune defense.

Inappropriate antibiotic use for COVID-19 is linked to resistance

Using azithromycin within one day triggers antibiotic resistance in the respiratory tract, according to a study published in Nature Microbiology. The researchers followed hospitalized COVID-19 patients and found that azithromycin changed the mix of microbes in the upper airway, leading to persistent changes for more than a week.

Power outages linked to more emergency hospital visits for older adults

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that power outages in the US are associated with increased emergency hospital visits for older adults, particularly for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The study estimated that 4,246 additional hospitalizations occurred in 2018 among adults over 65 due to power outages.

Sleep apnea aggravates muscle loss in people with COPD, research shows

Researchers found that patients with both COPD and sleep apnea had significantly lower muscle strength and functional capacity compared to those with isolated COPD. The study highlights the importance of monitoring sleep-disordered breathing in the COPD population to improve quality of life.

Evaluating the effects of hypnotics for insomnia in obstructive sleep apnea

Researchers evaluated 12 hypnotic medications on sleep architecture and respiratory function in adults with obstructive sleep apnea. The study found that while some medications worsened respiratory outcomes, others showed no significant effects, highlighting the need for individualized treatment.

Foreign aid cuts to tuberculosis services could cost families $80 billion worldwide

A new study warns that reduced international funding for tuberculosis services could lead to significant economic hardship for 40 million households globally, with the poorest households bearing the greatest burden. The study estimates that complete elimination of external funding for TB could cost families up to $80 billion annually.

Severe COVID-19, flu facilitate lung cancer months or years later, new research shows

Severe COVID-19 and influenza infections can prime the lungs for cancer development, according to new research. Vaccination, however, largely prevents these changes, suggesting a reduced risk of lung cancer.

The research that got sick veterans treatment

Rutgers researchers helped establish a link between burn pit exposure and respiratory illnesses in veterans, enabling the VA to adopt new rules implementing the PACT Act. The new methodology assigns graded levels of confidence, providing a path forward for evaluating service-related illnesses.

Valved holding chambers vary significantly in the treatment of young children with respiratory distress

A new study shows that valved holding chambers used to deliver medication to children with acute respiratory diseases differ markedly in their performance. The choice of device can affect treatment outcomes, with higher delivery devices resulting in lower hospital admissions and better physiological recovery.

First evidence of WHO ‘critical priority’ fungal pathogen becoming more deadly when co-infected with tuberculosis

Co-infection of Cryptococcus neoformans and Mycobacterium tuberculosis increases risk of death significantly compared to fungal infection alone. The fungus changes its cell density, diversity, and capsule size in response to the bacterial pathogen.

Treatment can protect extremely premature babies from lung disease

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that early hydrocortisone treatment increases the chance of surviving without lung disease for extremely premature babies. The treatment is safe and does not increase serious side effects.

Nanoparticle-based gene editing could expand treatment options for cystic fibrosis

UCLA researchers have developed a novel gene-editing approach using lipid nanoparticles to deliver a full-length CFTR gene into human airway cells. The study shows promise for treating cystic fibrosis by correcting the underlying genetic mutation, which could lead to more effective and long-term therapies.

The central role of cytokine storm in ARDS: From pathophysiology to precision medicine

A new review highlights the cytokine storm's key role in lung injury and multi-organ dysfunction in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The review emphasizes biological heterogeneity, subphenotypes, and the need for biomarker-guided patient stratification.

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.

Study reveals the gene networks driving sex differences in respiratory health

A new study has confirmed that male and female lungs are wired differently at the molecular level, revealing key gene networks driving sex differences in respiratory health. The research found that male lungs are more reactive to environmental triggers, leading to different disease experiences between sexes.

Shorter treatment regimens are safe options for preventing active tuberculosis

A one- and three-month antibiotic treatment regimens both had few adverse reactions and high rates of completion in preventing active tuberculosis, says a new study published in PLOS Medicine. The regimens were deemed successful and neither proved superior to the other.

Early TB treatment reduced deaths from sepsis among people with HIV

A new study found that tuberculosis is a major cause of deadly sepsis among people living with HIV, particularly in Africa. Early treatment of TB has been shown to significantly reduce sepsis deaths, with a 23% reduction in mortality rate.

Risk of cardiorespiratory events following RSV–related hospitalization

A recent study found that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) hospitalizations are associated with a higher risk of cardiorespiratory events, with some conditions experiencing elevated risks up to 180 days after admission. The findings highlight the importance of increasing RSV immunization in adults to mitigate this risk.

Pediatric Investigation study reports significant shifts in post-COVID respiratory infection trends in children

A recent study found significant changes in post-COVID respiratory infections among children, with Mycoplasma pneumoniae experiencing a surge after restrictions were lifted. The study also revealed strong interactions between pathogens, including negative correlations and pathogen interference.

Sepsis study IDs simple ways to save lives in Africa

A sweeping new study has identified tuberculosis as the predominant cause of deadly sepsis among people with HIV in Africa. Immediate treatment for TB significantly increased survival rates, especially when treatment was started before diagnosis.

Artificial lung system keeps patient alive without lungs until transplant

Researchers have created an artificial lung system that temporarily replaced a patient's lungs' functions, allowing him to survive for 48 hours until a double lung transplant was available. The study shows that this approach may serve as a life-saving bridge to transplantation, providing new hope for those with severe respiratory condi...

Double trouble: Tobacco use and Long COVID

Current smokers are more likely to experience four symptoms associated with Long COVID, including arthralgia, chest pain and dyspnea. Dual users of combustible and heated tobacco products also show a stronger correlation with symptoms, suggesting the added use may worsen symptoms.

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.

Human nasal passages defend against the common cold and help determine how sick we get

Researchers created lab-grown human nasal tissue to study the defense mechanisms against rhinoviruses. They found that cells in the nasal lining produce interferons, which induce a coordinated antiviral defense, controlling viral replication and reducing damage.

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.

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.

TB harnesses part of immune defense system to cause infection

Researchers have discovered that TB bacteria manipulate the immune system's Dectin-1 receptor to facilitate its survival. The study found that when this pathway is absent, both human and mouse cells can control MTB infection. This breakthrough provides new insight into why humans and animals are susceptible to contracting tuberculosis.

Community asthma program on Navajo Nation increases care-seeking for children with asthma

A new community asthma program on the Navajo Nation increased asthma-related care and awareness among families, particularly among Diné (Navajo) children. The program, led by National Jewish Health, trained healthcare and school staff to provide culturally respectful asthma care.

AI-powered ECG analysis offers promising path for early detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, says Mount Sinai researchers

Researchers at Mount Sinai have developed an AI-powered ECG analysis tool that shows promise in detecting Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) early. The model achieved high accuracy rates across diverse populations, including a subgroup with irregular heartbeat and smoking exposure.

Efficacy and safety of ceftazidime-avibactam versus standard antibiotic therapy for resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that ceftazidime-avibactam is more effective than standard antibiotic therapy in managing drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae infections. The treatment also showed a lower rate of adverse reactions and mortality. The results suggest that ceftazidime-avibactam is a more favorable choice for c...

Nirsevimab against hospitalizations and emergency department visits for lower respiratory tract infection in infants

A meta-analysis found nirsevimab to be associated with reduced hospitalizations and emergency department visits for lower respiratory tract infections in young children. This suggests the potential of nirsevimab to decrease respiratory-related morbidity in this population.

New vaccine could be first to prevent deadly emerging tropical disease

Researchers at Tulane University have developed the first vaccine able to protect nonhuman primates from melioidosis, a long-neglected and deadly tropical disease on the rise. The vaccine uses outer membrane vesicles to trigger a powerful immune response.

Cases of whooping cough remain high, but knowledge about the disease still low

The number of US pertussis cases has surged sixfold since the pandemic began, with over 26,600 reported in 2024. Many Americans are unaware of whooping cough symptoms or that a vaccine exists to prevent it. Despite widespread agreement on the causes and risks of the disease, vaccination rates remain low.

Obesity and inflammation may accelerate lung aging and increase the risk of COPD

A Brazilian study of nearly 900 adults under 40 found that obesity and systemic inflammation accelerate lung aging and increase the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Smoking remains the main risk factor for lung function loss, but these two conditions can also contribute to COPD.

Real-world data gives Africa a smarter path to fighting HIV and TB

Biostatisticians applied statistical method to existing routine data to understand how TB prevention protocols are functioning in real-world conditions. The results show clear progress and serious gaps in TB preventive treatment uptake among patients initiating antiretroviral therapy.