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American Thoracic Society news tips for January

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 ...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 17, 2001

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for June

Two studies found a decrease in respiratory illnesses among school-age children after improved air quality. Lung function continued to grow in adolescents despite cessation of growth in height, with males showing greater gains. A new diagnostic test for asthma in young children was also developed.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 13, 2000

Simple change in mechanical ventilator cuts deaths by more than 20 percent

A nationwide clinical trial found that reducing tidal volumes in mechanical ventilation can cut mortality from Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) by up to 22%. The study, involving 861 patients and coordinated at Massachusetts General Hospital, used a new technique with smaller oxygen puffs to provide breathing assistance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 9, 2000

Medical test helps children, cuts costs

A new medical test using pulse oximetry can accurately diagnose obstructive sleep apnea in children, reducing equipment and staffing costs. The test also enables early treatment for children with breathing obstruction related to tonsils or adenoids, improving respiratory health outcomes.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2000

UI study suggests genetics and gender affect human response to endotoxin

A recent University of Iowa Health Care study found that genetic factors and sex differences significantly affect human responses to endotoxin, with women more likely to experience declined airway function. The study examined 72 individuals without respiratory conditions and discovered a wide range of reactions to the contaminant.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 1, 1999

Smog impacts: Hurtling through airways, tiny particles may do more damage than previously assumed

Researchers have found that tiny air pollutant particles can penetrate deeper into the lungs of healthy adults, potentially threatening their health. The study suggests that these particles can move up to two times faster through the airways than previously assumed, with implications for public health and environmental regulations.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Aerosol Science·DateAug 16, 1999

Obesity And Breathing Capacity

A study of 1235 adults found that obesity was associated with reduced breathing capacity, but only when fat mass was present. Handgrip strength and muscular fitness were also linked to improved lung function, suggesting a mediating role in the relationship between body composition and respiratory function.

SourceAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 1, 1998

Sleep Apnea Is A Risk Factor For Hypertension

Researchers found a causal relationship between sleep-disordered breathing and hypertension in a substantial number of American adults. People with mild to moderate sleep apnea were 1.8 times more likely to have hypertension than those without, with the severity of apnea linked to increased blood pressure risk.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateAug 13, 1997