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Asthma in smokers: challenges and opportunities
Neil C Thomson1, Rekha Chaudhuri
1Division of Immunology, Infection and Inflammation, Department of Respiratory Medicine, University of Glasgow, Gartnavel General Hospital, Glasgow, UK. n.c.thomson@clinmed.gla.ac.uk
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine
|December 17, 2008
Summary
Smoking significantly worsens asthma control and reduces corticosteroid effectiveness. Encouraging smoking cessation is crucial for managing asthma, though further research is needed for optimal therapies in smokers.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Cigarette smoking is a known factor exacerbating asthma.
- Smokers with asthma experience poorer symptom control and increased hospitalizations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on the adverse effects of smoking in asthma.
- To explore management strategies for asthma patients who smoke.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent evidence.
- Analysis of factors contributing to reduced corticosteroid sensitivity in smokers.
- Evaluation of smoking cessation and therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- Smokers exhibit more severe asthma symptoms and higher hospitalization rates.
- Reduced corticosteroid sensitivity in smokers may stem from noneosinophilic inflammation or impaired receptor function.
- Smoking cessation improves asthma control, but quit rates remain low.
- Leukotriene-receptor antagonists show potential benefit in mild asthma among smokers.
Conclusions:
- Smoking is a significant risk factor for poor asthma control and diminished corticosteroid response.
- Promoting smoking cessation in asthma patients is paramount.
- Further clinical trials are necessary to establish effective therapies for smokers with asthma.
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