Asthma and allergies are both caused by the body’s immune system overacting to a relatively harmless trigger. In order to lessen this overreaction, a new breathable medication called quilizumab is being developed that interrupts the production of immunoglobulin type E (IgE)-- the protein that triggers allergic reactions.
Over the past few years, mobile apps have become a huge industry. Last year, approximately 102 billion apps were downloaded and, though most were free, they generated $26 billion in revenue. One of the most interesting developments is the rise of medical apps, including apps for people with asthma. Here are three you might find useful.
Asthma rates have been soaring around the world and specifically in the US for years. But now, a new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says there’s been a major drop in the percentage of Americans with asthma, from 8.6% in 2012 all the way down to 7.4% in 2013. That’s the lowest reported asthma percentage in a decade and would represent a decline of more than 3 million people.
In the past, studies have shown an increased asthma risk among kids who live in poorer areas of cities. Which makes a lot of sense-- the air quality’s worse and there are more rats, roaches, and allergens to contend with. But now, a new study has shaken things up by showing that kids who live in too clean of homes are more, not less, likely to develop asthma and allergies.
Recently, there’s been lotsoftalk on proposed new government regulations that would cut carbon pollution from power plants by 30% from their 2005 levels by the year 2030.
Critics claim the new regulations will increase energy and fuel prices within the US, while doing little to curb carbon pollution on a global scale. Supporters claim the regulations will lead to a healthier US population, ease global warming, and save the US $55 - $93 billion.
Many parents of asthmatic children are reluctant to send their kids to summer camp, unsure if the camp staff will be properly equipped to handle any asthma flare ups that may occur.
In the past, several studies have shown that asthmatics with lower levels of vitamin D had more asthma related problems, including weaker lungs and more frequent asthma exacerbations. It wasn’t clear whether or not these asthma problems were caused by the lack of vitamin D, but there was a great way to find out-- give those with asthma more vitamin D and see what happens.
Every May the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) celebrates Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. Pollen counts are particularly high during May due to all the plants sprouting back up after winter, making May a peak season for asthma and allergy triggers.
The other day, I came across the story of Gavin Dolman, a 32-year old man from the United Kingdom who, despite suffering from asthma his whole life, regularly participates in triathlons and other high-stakes races. He’s even managed to conquer Mt. Kilimanjaro - a commendable feat that becomes all the more impressive when you consider the risks of oxygen deprivation and altitude sickness the trek poses for non-asthmatics, let alone those who suffer from the condition.
Summer may not be as well known for seasonal allergies as the spring and fall, but it still brings many triggers that those with allergies and asthma should avoid.
Not much is known about Burkholderia cenocepacia or Burkholderia multivorans-- two genetically similar bacteria which prey upon those with cystic fibrosis. Both are highly contagious, difficult to kill, and have become resistant to numerous drugs. And recently, both have been turned into virtual models by researchers at the University of Virginia’s School of Medicine.
A new study by the Seoul National University Medical Research Center has found that those with asthma are more likely to have low bone density in the lumbar region of their spine (the area between the ribs and pelvis).
