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Questions about Asthma

Short answers, pulled from the story.

How many people worldwide were affected by asthma in 2019?

In 2019, approximately 262 million people worldwide were affected by asthma. This common long-term inflammatory disease of the airways is characterized by variable and recurring symptoms.

What genetic region is most strongly associated with childhood-onset asthma?

The chromosome region 17q12, 21 remains the most robustly replicated asthma locus with effects strongest for childhood-onset disease. Multiple genes in this region including ORMDL3 and GSDMB appear to act primarily through regulatory mechanisms.

Which test is considered the single best method for diagnosing asthma?

Spirometry measures lung function in terms of amount and speed of air exhaled and inhaled and is recommended to aid in diagnosis and management. It is the single best test for asthma.

When was epinephrine first referred to as a treatment for asthma?

In 1905 epinephrine was first referred to as treatment of asthma. The asthma was relieved with this treatment by what was described as vasomotor ataxia of relaxing variety.

Why do non-Hispanic black and Puerto Rican children have higher asthma prevalence rates?

Prevalence highest in non-Hispanic black and Puerto Rican children due to neighborhoods predominantly racial and ethnic minority populations affected greater extent than predominantly white neighborhoods by air pollutants significant factor occurrence asthma.