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Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 4, 2010
Asthma and obesity in children
1Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Division of Allergy, Children's Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois 60614, USA. rstory@childrensmemorial.org
Current Opinion in Pediatrics
|November 21, 2007
Summary
Childhood obesity is linked to an increased risk of developing asthma and worsening its severity. Further research is needed to understand this connection and develop effective interventions for affected children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Childhood asthma and obesity represent significant, growing public health concerns.
- The prevalence of both conditions has markedly increased over the last decade.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on the relationship between asthma and obesity in children.
- To examine the clinical impact of obesity on pediatric asthma.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of prospective studies and relevant publications.
- Analysis of proposed biological and behavioral mechanisms linking asthma and obesity.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests obesity elevates the risk of subsequent asthma development.
- Obesity is associated with increased asthma severity and reduced quality of life in children.
- Potential mechanisms include airway inflammation, mechanical changes, altered airway hyper-responsiveness, and lifestyle factors.
Conclusions:
- The precise relationship between childhood asthma and obesity remains incompletely understood.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate these connections and inform effective interventions.
- Addressing both epidemics is vital for improving the health outcomes of children affected by asthma and obesity.
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