Asthma

ASTHMA

Evidence

Risk of Asthma in Young Adults Who Were Born Preterm: A Swedish National Cohort Study

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3387891/

This is the first study with sufficient statistical power to evaluate the risk of asthma beyond adolescence in individuals who were born extremely preterm. The results suggest that extreme preterm birth (23–27 weeks' gestation), but not later preterm birth, is associated with an increased risk of asthma at least into young adulthood.

Casey Crump, MD, PhD,^a Marilyn A. Winkleby, PhD,^b Jan Sundquist, MD, PhD,^b,c and Kristina Sundquist, MD, PhD^c

Education

Asthma is a chronic lung disorder that causes swelling and inflammation in the lungs and consequently narrowing of the airways. It is typically diagnosed in childhood; however it can develop at any age. When asthma symptoms appear in adults, it is known as adult-onset asthma. In adults, asthma symptoms are typically persistent, unlike in children where symptoms are mostly intermittent.

Symptoms of adult-onset asthma may include:

• wheezing
• coughing
• congestion
• mucus secretion in the airways
• trouble sleeping
• chest pain
• pressure in the chest
• shortness of breath after physical activity
• delayed recovery from a respiratory infection eg flu or cold

Studies have found that extreme prematurity (23 to 27 weeks’ gestation) can be associated with an increased risk of being prescribed asthma medication in young adulthood, compared to those born full term. While later prematurity does not appear to carry the same risks.

With suitable planning and preparation, the frequency of asthma attacks can be controlled with daily treatment. Avoiding triggers such as smoke, pollen, pets, foods, changes in weather and respiratory illnesses can help minimize asthma flare ups.

Empowerment

The recognition of extreme prematurity as a possible risk factor for asthma in later life should always be considered. Doctors should be encouraged to gain a full medical history of an adult experiencing asthmatic symptoms and patients should be urged to inform their doctors of their prematurity when being seen for respiratory issues. As adults who were born premature are now living longer, therefore it is important that health professionals consider the affect that the early birth may have on the patient’s long-term health.

Useful links:

https://asthma.org.au/

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