Longitudinal changes in airway hyperresponsiveness and COPD mortality

Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) is associated with an increased mortality risk among males [1] and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients [2]. However, this association is largely based on cross-sectional studies using a single measurement of AHR to predict mortality; inherently ignoring the longitudinal variability of AHR. AHR is variable regardless of disease or medication status, and is linked with changes in smoking habits, seasonal variations and exposure to pollutants [3–5]. Considering this, it remains unclear how changes in AHR affect mortality, specifically from causes such as COPD, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer.

Source: European Respiratory Journal - February 5, 2020 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Teferra, A. A., Vonk, J. M., Boezen, H. M. Tags: Asthma and allergy Original Articles: Research letters Source Type: research