Month: July 2024

Jul 05

Is Anxiety Contagious?

Is Anxiety Contagious? Similar to how viruses can be contagious, stress and anxiety can also be "caught" from others, according to Carla Marie Manly, PhD, a clinical psychologist. Mirror neurons in our brain, which are activated when we observe others’ actions or experiences, may play a role in this phenomenon. This means that when we witness someone else’s stress or anxiety, we can internalize those feelings within ourselves. Research has shown that stress contagion is a real phenomenon. A study published in Scientific Reports in 2017 demonstrated that watching anxious speakers led to an increase in heart rates among the viewers, indicating a physiological stress response. Additionally, individuals with higher levels of empathy tend to be more susceptible to absorbing others’ stress, although not necessarily to a greater extent than those with lower empathy. While it’s natural to be affected by the stress and anxiety of others, it’s important to remember that you have the power to mitigate its impact on your well-being. By practicing certain strategies proactively, you can better navigate and cope with stressful situations. These strategies can include self-care practices such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, setting boundaries, and seeking support from trusted individuals. By taking proactive steps to manage your own stress and anxiety, you can protect yourself from being overwhelmed by the emotions of others. Remember, you have the ability to maintain your own well-being even in the face of external stressors. Make a Positive Pivot When faced with a situation where your friends are discussing a topic, such as politics, that you would rather not dwell on and want to maintain a positive atmosphere, it can be helpful to validate their points while redirecting the conversation in a more uplifting direction. Jennifer L. Taitz, PsyD, suggests validating their concerns and then introducing a new topic that promotes gratitude and positivity. For instance, you can acknowledge the challenging nature of the current political climate by saying something like, "I understand that these are tough times. Can we take a moment to share something that we’re grateful for?" By shifting the focus towards gratitude, you can set a more positive tone for the conversation. Remember, you have the ability to guide the direction of the discussion and contribute to a more uplifting and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved. Label Your Emotions Dr. Jennifer L. Taitz emphasizes the importance of labeling and acknowledging your emotions as a means of regulating them effectively. By giving a name to the specific emotions you are experiencing, you can gain a sense of control over them rather than feeling overwhelmed by their intensity. For instance, if you recognize that you are feeling anxious because your friend Maggie is stressed about her job, and this triggers concerns about your own job security, acknowledging these feelings can be empowering. By confronting and identifying the underlying reasons for your agitation, you can begin to address and manage them more effectively. This process of emotional labeling allows you to gain insight into the sources of your distress and take appropriate steps to address and navigate through them. It helps to create a greater sense of self-awareness and empowers you to actively engage with your emotions rather than being consumed by them. Mentally Remove Yourself From the Situation Dr. Carla Marie Manly suggests employing a visualization technique where you imagine yourself detaching from the situation and adopting the perspective of an impartial observer, such as a researcher or photographer. By doing so, you create psychological distance and release any judgment or emotional entanglement. As you visualize this detachment, it is beneficial to practice deep and focused breathing. Deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes a state of relaxation and calmness. This physiological response can further support your emotional detachment and help alleviate any stress or anxiety you may be experiencing. By mentally and emotionally distancing yourself from the stress of others, you recognize that you have the power to choose your level of involvement and not be overwhelmed by their emotions. This technique allows you to maintain your own sense of peace and well-being while still empathizing and supporting others from a healthier and more balanced standpoint. Take Action When you feel anxiety rising within you, it can be helpful to assess whether there is any action you can take to address the issue causing the anxiety. If you determine that there is nothing you can do to change the situation, take a deep breath and visualize releasing it as you exhale slowly. This process allows you to let go of the worry and tension associated with the situation. However, if you realize that there are steps you can take to address the issue, it is important to take action. Even small actions can make a difference. For instance, if consuming too much news exacerbates your uneasiness, you can take a proactive step like disabling news alerts on your phone or setting limits on your social media usage. By taking these actions, you signal to your body and mind that you are actively addressing the situation, which can provide a sense of empowerment and relief. Remember, whether you can directly change the situation or take steps to manage your response to it, every action, no matter how small, can contribute to a positive shift and help alleviate anxiety. Deflect Their Anxiety When a friend is going through a tough time, it’s natural to want to help them. However, sometimes the best way to support someone is to offer them a distraction. Plan an activity together that will take their mind off of their problems. This could be anything from going for a walk to playing a game. Doing something together will help them to feel less alone and give them a chance to relax and recharge. Here are some specific examples of activities that you could do with your friend: Go for a walk or hike Play a game of cards or board games Watch a movie or TV show Go to a

Jul 05

Panel Recommends Routine Anxiety Screening for Adults Under 65—Here’s What That Could Look Like

Panel Recommends Routine Anxiety Screening for Adults Under 65—Here’s What That Could Look Like The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has released a draft recommendation urging the screening of all adults under the age of 65 for anxiety disorders. This recommendation aims to normalize the screening process for anxiety and highlights the importance of identifying these disorders early to provide appropriate care. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on people’s mental health, and there is a growing recognition of the increased struggles individuals are facing. The USPSTF believes that clinicians should have the ability to screen for anxiety disorders in order to identify them early and ensure that individuals receive the necessary care. While the USPSTF recommends widespread screening for anxiety disorders, it reiterates the need for screening for depression in adults but does not propose the same level of universal screening as it does for anxiety. This recommendation acknowledges the importance of addressing mental health concerns and the impact they have on overall well-being. By normalizing the screening process, it is hoped that more individuals will receive the necessary support and treatment for anxiety disorders. As the recommendation progresses, it has the potential to impact healthcare by promoting routine screening for anxiety disorders and ensuring that mental health is given the same importance as physical health in clinical settings. It highlights the need for healthcare providers to be equipped to address mental health concerns and provide appropriate care to individuals experiencing anxiety. Staggering Rates of Mental Health Issues in the U.S. The reported rates of anxiety in the U.S. have been increasing over the years, with a significant jump observed between 2008 and 2018. This rise in anxiety rates is particularly pronounced among young adults. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated anxiety issues, with an increase in symptoms of anxiety and depression observed during the pandemic. This global impact prompted the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) to prioritize the recommendation for anxiety screening. Anxiety disorders often go under-identified and under-recognized in primary care settings. The USPSTF recognizes that it takes an average of 23 years for individuals with anxiety disorders to receive appropriate treatment, highlighting the importance of early screening and access to care. Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent, affecting around 26% of men and 40% of women over their lifetime. Through their review of available evidence, the USPSTF concluded that screening for anxiety in adults under the age of 65, including pregnant and postpartum individuals, can help identify anxiety early and facilitate appropriate care connections. The recommendation for anxiety screening aims to address the common and significant impact of anxiety disorders on individuals’ mental health and overall well-being. By implementing routine screening, healthcare providers can identify anxiety disorders more effectively and ensure that individuals receive timely and appropriate support and treatment. What Would Widespread Screening Look Like? It’s important to note that the recommendation from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding anxiety screening is currently in the draft stage and open for public comment until October 17. While the USPSTF findings are influential for doctors, they are not binding and independent from the U.S. government. If the recommendation were to be widely adopted, patients would be asked to complete a questionnaire about their moods and worries during their primary care visits. If a doctor identifies potential concerns regarding anxiety disorders, they would refer the individual to a mental health professional for further evaluation and discussion of diagnosis or treatment options. This initial screening would likely be a one-time occurrence, unless there are specific concerns raised by the healthcare provider. Anxiety screening is a valuable tool for early detection and intervention, as anxiety can often be misinterpreted or normalized as benign stress. By incorporating screening into routine healthcare visits, individuals with anxiety symptoms can be identified and connected to appropriate care. It is worth noting that the recommendation currently applies to adults under 65, and more research is needed to understand the effectiveness of anxiety screening in different demographic groups. The USPSTF did not find sufficient evidence to recommend anxiety screening for individuals over 65, but providers may still consider screening if deemed beneficial. Additional research is also needed to explore screening for depression and suicide risk, as well as their relevance to specific populations based on factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. It’s important for individuals experiencing signs or symptoms of anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts to communicate their concerns with healthcare professionals, as appropriate assessment and connection to care are crucial for their well-being. Screening Uncovers the Issue, But Barriers to Treatment Endure While the recommendation for anxiety screening is a positive step towards identifying cases of anxiety disorders, it is essential to acknowledge that diagnosis is just one component of mental health care. After individuals are screened and receive a diagnosis, timely access to treatment is crucial, but there are often barriers that can hinder this process. Disparities in diagnosis and treatment rates for mental health conditions, such as depression, have been observed. Studies have shown that a significant proportion of individuals who screen positive for depression do not receive timely follow-up care within three months. Various factors contribute to these disparities, including cost. Affordability can be a significant deterrent for people seeking mental health services, as highlighted in surveys where individuals cited cost as a barrier to accessing the mental health care they need. Insufficient availability of mental health professionals is another challenge. Many areas, especially rural communities and communities of color, face difficulties in accessing mental health services due to a lack of providers. This shortage highlights the need to expand mental health services and improve accessibility across different populations and geographic regions. There is also a need to bridge the gap between primary care providers and mental health professionals. Collaboration and communication between these two sectors are essential to ensure that individuals identified with mental health conditions receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Addressing these barriers requires comprehensive efforts, including adequate funding for mental health

Jul 05

Conjunctivitis infections in Singapore up 75% from 2022

SINGAPORE – The number of conjunctivitis reports in Singapore has risen significantly in 2023, with a 75 per cent increase in the cases recorded daily between January and July, compared with the same period in 2022. According to the Ministry of Health’s weekly infectious disease bulletin for the week ended July 8, polyclinics logged an average of 63 cases of acute conjunctivitis daily, up from 36 a day in the same period in 2022. The Straits Times reported in March that daily cases had gone up amid the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions. The easing of rules could have facilitated the spread of viruses and bacteria that cause the condition. Commonly referred to as pink eye, conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, a clear membrane that protects the sclera, which is the white, outer layer of the eye. The most common forms of conjunctivitis infections include viral or bacterial infections, and allergic conjunctivitis. Patients often experience mild to severe itchiness in the eye, sensitivity to light, swollen sclera, watery eyes, eye discharge, blurred vision and, in some cases, pain in the infected eye. Some sufferers may even notice a jelly-like texture on the surface of their eye. Dr Jayant V. Iyer and Dr Jason Lee from The Straits Eye Centre said they have observed a “notable increase” in the number of patients with infective conjunctivitis symptoms. “(This could) be attributed to heightened interpersonal interactions among individuals this year, in contrast to the reduced interactions experienced during the preceding pandemic years,” they said. They added that it is essential for individuals already infected with a viral upper respiratory tract infection or infective conjunctivitis to obtain a medical certificate and practise adequate social distancing at home until recovery. “(Infective conjunctivitis) is highly contagious and spreads through hand-to-eye contact following contact with infected individuals or objects. It can also be transmitted through exposure to coughing or sneezing from individuals with viral upper respiratory tract infections,” they said. The doctors added that infective conjunctivitis can be “debilitating”, with the recovery period ranging from three days to two weeks. Dr Ding Si Yan, a family physician at National Healthcare Group Polyclinics, said the symptoms of conjunctivitis may greatly affect the patient’s ability to concentrate at work or in school. But there are ways to curb the spread of conjunctivitis, he said. He recommends personal hygiene practices such as washing hands with soap and water before and after touching the eyes, and cautions people against rubbing their eyes unnecessarily, as that could cause conjunctivitis to spread to the other healthy eye, or to other individuals.

Jul 05

Infection-induced cognitive decline: Mechanisms and potential treatments

Biological agents threaten people’s life through different ways, one of which lies in the impairment of cognition. It is believed cognitive decline may result from biological agents mediated neuron damage directly, or from the activation of the host immune response to eradicate the pathogen. However, there is limited evidence for direct linkage between infections and cognitive decline. The authors of this article focus on the mechanisms of how different biological viruses, or their induced systemic and local inflammation, link to the cognitive impairment, focusing on the roles of activated microglia and several molecular pathways mediated neurotoxicity. Highlights Infection induced cognitive decline are persistent threat to people’s health. Infection induces neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation which contributes to cognitive decline. Targeting CDK5 or other critical pathway may provide new solutions to alleviate infection induced cognitive decline. Compuscript Ltd Journal reference: Du, C., et al. (2023). Biosafety and mental health: Virus induced cognitive decline. Biosafety and Health. doi.org/10.1016/j.bsheal.2023.04.002.

Jul 05

Isavuconazole Comparable to Other Antifungals in Treating Invasive Fungal Infections

The novel triazole antifungal agent, isavuconazole, was found to be comparable to other antifungals for the treatment and prevention of invasive fungal infections (IFIs), and is associated with fewer drug-related adverse events and discontinuations, according to a study published in Mycoses. Researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that included patients who received isavuconazole and other antifungal agents to assess the efficacy and safety of the drug for the treatment of IFIs. Following PRISMA guidelines, the authors searched Scopus, EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL, and Ichushi for articles in English and Japanese published up to February 7, 2023. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials and retrospective and cohort studies that reported mortality, IFI rate, discontinuation rate due to adverse events, or incidence of abnormal hepatic function in patients with IFIs treated with and without isavuconazole. The primary outcomes were overall mortality for treatment and IFI rate for prophylaxis. A control group included patients treated with antifungal agents other than isavuconazole. Our findings suggest that ISAV is a useful first-line antifungal agent for the treatment and prophylaxis of IFIs. The analysis included 10 studies, 2 of which were randomized control trials. Control group patients received amphotericin B, voriconazole, and posaconazole for IFIs. Related Content In 6 studies with 870 participants that evaluated mortality for treatment of IFIs, pooled analysis showed no significant decrease in mortality in the isavuconazole group vs the control group in a fixed-effects model (treatment, odds ratio [OR] 1.11; 95% CI, 0.82-1.51; I2=0%). The mortality rate was lower among patients in the isavuconazole group (28.3%) compared with those in the control group (33.6%). In a pooled analysis of 2 studies with 577 patients, the effects of isavuconazole for prophylaxis were found to be comparable to those of with the control groups in terms of the IFI rate (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.49-2.12; I2=0%). Regarding discontinuation rates, 5 studies with 387 participants receiving isavuconazole and 390 patients in the control group receiving other antifungal agents showed discontinuation rates of 9.8% and 16.9%, respectively, in the 2 groups. Patients in the control group had a significant decrease in the continued treatment rate compared with those of the isavuconazole group (OR 1.96; 95% CI, 1.26-3.07; I2=0%). For prophylaxis, the discontinuation rate was not significantly different in the 2 groups (isavuconazole vs control, 9.4% vs 17.9%; OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 0.60-6.78). A pooled analysis of 3 studies that evaluated the incidence of hepatic function abnormalities in treatment showed a significantly increased incidence in the control group vs the isavuconazole group (8.0% vs 16.3%; OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.41-3.78). Among several limitations, most patients had a variety of comorbidities, were treated at different drug dosages, and underwent different durations of therapy. Also, randomized control trials and high-quality observational studies were lacking for various IFI subtypes. “Our findings suggest that ISAV is a useful first-line antifungal agent for the treatment and prophylaxis of IFIs,” the authors concluded. This article originally appeared on Dermatology Advisor References: Kato H, Hagihara M, Asai N, et al. A systematic review and meta-analysis of efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for the treatment and prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections. Mycoses. Published online June 10, 2023. doi:10.1111/myc.13622

Jul 05

Congenital Heart Disease Team Grants to Drive Interdisciplinary Research Collaboration

New research funding will enable optimal wellness and health outcomes for people living with CHD, their families, and caregivers TORONTO, July 17, 2023 /CNW/ – Heart & Stroke, together with Brain Canada, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health and Institute of Genetics, are launching a new research funding opportunity, the Congenital Heart Disease Team Grants. This team grant competition focuses on congenital heart disease (CHD) throughout the lifespan and in the context of the whole person, with considerations for sex and gender, Indigenous health and wellness, and health equity. CHD includes a wide range of structural anomalies of the heart that occur as a fetus develops in the womb. Due to advances in detection and interventions, there has been an increase in survival of babies born with CHD, and a growing number of people with CHD are reaching adulthood. This has implications for the ongoing management of their health and wellbeing, and ongoing care needs, across the lifespan. A coordinated and collaborative effort is needed to accelerate system-level change to improve CHD care and lifelong, equitable access to the full continuum of care services available in Canada. The ultimate goal is to improve the lives of those living with the condition as well as their families and caregivers. Research is needed to help achieve these goals. “Heart & Stroke is thrilled to once again be collaborating with our partners at Brain Canada and CIHR,” says Doug Roth, CEO, Heart & Stroke. “We are committed to working to improve access to high quality, personalized and integrated health services and knowledge for people living with CHD and their families.” “This funding empowers the research community to accelerate advancements and impact the lives of those living with CHD. Together, we can unlock the mysteries of the heart-brain connection, uncovering innovative solutions and nurturing a healthier future for all,” says Dr. Viviane Poupon, President and CEO of Brain Canada. “As Canada’s primary health research funding agency, CIHR is proud to collaborate with partners and researchers to support knowledge creation, capacity development and knowledge mobilization in important health areas. Through targeted research investments, this team grant funding aims to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals living with CHD, recognizing that their health care needs extend beyond diagnosis to life-long management.” says Dr Brian H. Rowe, Scientific Director of CIHR’s Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health. Research Teams will focus on one of three priority research areas: Causes of CHD and Early Detection Brain Health and CHD Care Transitions The competition aims to bring together multi-institutional, interdisciplinary health research teams with multiple collaborators (e.g., researchers, clinicians, people with lived/living experience, health care providers, system leaders, Indigenous Elders or Knowledge Keepers, government, policy makers, not-for-profit organizations, and industry) to create and mobilize knowledge that will improve the health and wellness of individuals living with CHD, their families, and caregivers. The registration deadline is September 15, 2023. Eligible registrants will have until November 15, 2023 to submit their full application. Funding for the Congenital Heart Disease Team Grants has been made possible by the Canada Brain Research Fund (CBRF), an innovative arrangement between the Government of Canada (through Health Canada) and Brain Canada Foundation; the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Canada’s primary health research funding agency, and its Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health and Institute of Genetics; and Heart & Stroke, Canada’s leading health charity devoted to heart disease and stroke. About Heart & Stroke Life. We don’t want you to miss it. That’s why Heart & Stroke has been leading the fight to beat heart disease and stroke for 70 years. We must generate the next medical breakthroughs, so Canadians don’t miss out on precious moments. Together, we are working to prevent disease, save lives and promote recovery through research, health promotion and public policy. Heartandstroke.ca @heartandstroke About Brain Canada Brain Canada plays a unique and invaluable role as a national convenor of those who support and advance brain research. A greater understanding of how the brain works contributes to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure of disorders of the brain, ultimately improving the health outcomes of people in Canada and around the world. To learn more, visit Braincanada.ca @BrainCanada About the Canadian Institutes of Health Research At the CIHR, we believe research has the power to change lives. As Canada’s health research investment agency, we collaborate with partners and researchers to support the discoveries and innovations that improve our health and strengthen our health care system. To learn more, visit cihr-irsc.gc.ca @CIHR_IRSC SOURCE Heart and Stroke Foundation For further information: Contacts: Alicia D’Aguiar, 647-426-8410, [email protected]; Brielle Goulart, 450-915-2253, [email protected]; CIHR Media Relations, 613-941-4563, [email protected]

Jul 05

The Prognostic Value of PCSK9 Levels for Predicting Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Diabetics

Globally, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the primary cause of illness and death and is much more common in with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients than non-diabetic individuals. Nevertheless, for approximately ten years, the identification of distinct prognostic risk biomarkers remains challenging. In a recent study posted to the preprint server Research Square* while under review for publication in Cardiovascular Diabetology, researchers investigate the prognostic value of serum proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) levels in T2DM patients to predict all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Study: Circulating PCSK9 as a prognostic biomarker of cardiovascular events in individuals with type 2 diabetes: evidence from a 16.8-year follow-up study. Image Credit: Kateryna Kon / Shutterstock.com *Important notice: Research Square publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. About the study A total of 529 T2DM patients were included in the current study with a median age of 67 years. The diagnosis of T2DM was based on criteria established by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), which includes glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) levels, fasting and two-hour blood glucose levels, and diabetes symptoms. Patients between 40 and 87 years of age who had a body mass index (BMI) of less than 40 kg/m2 were eligible for the study. Researchers collected fasting blood samples from all study participants, from which the serum concentration of PCSK9 was measured using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Several covariates of the participants were assessed, of which included vital signs, anthropometric measurements, behaviors, medical history, and treatment. Blood cell counts, biochemical variables, and diabetic complications were also evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed to compare PCSK9 levels, explore associations between variables, and identify factors related to T2DM complications and treatments. The association between PCSK9 levels and follow-up outcomes was determined using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards analysis, with adjustments for relevant factors. Study findings At enrollment, 289 patients had at least one T2DM complication. Among the 240 patients without complications, 149 subsequently developed complications. Related Stories Survival rates were higher in T2DM patients without any complications. At a median follow-up of 16.8 years, 196 patients had died, with a mean survival time of 14.2 years. The distribution of serum PCSK9 levels was moderately right-skewed, with a median level of 259.8 ng/mL. Serum PCSK9 levels were higher in females, particularly those with T2DM complications; however, age did not significantly impact PCSK9 levels in both sexes. An analysis of T2DM complications and treatments revealed that serum PCSK9 was significantly higher in individuals with diabetic kidney disease and a history of MACE. Statin treatment was also associated with higher PCSK9 levels. Furthermore, correlation analysis showed positive associations between PCSK9 and markers of blood sugar homeostasis, as well as lipid profile markers. Sex-specific cutoffs of 244 ng/mL for males and 299 ng/mL for females were determined to maximize survival prediction differences. Above these cutoffs, 31.3% and 51.8% of females and males, respectively, had elevated PCSK9 levels. Univariate analysis revealed that PCSK9 levels exceeding cutoff values were associated with all-cause mortality exclusively in males; however, this correlation was not observed after adjusting for various factors. In females, PCSK9 levels were not associated with all-cause mortality; however, women with PCSK9 levels exceeding 299 ng/mL were at an increased risk of MACE. Study takeaways A sex-specific predictive ability of PCSK9 was determined for the occurrence of MACE and all-cause mortality in a long-term follow-up of patients with T2DM. To this end, PCSK9 was associated with MACE only in women and with death only in men. The study findings emphasize the importance of identifying risk stratification biomarkers that reflect the underlying causes of atheroma in T2DM patients. While loss-of-function variations in PCSK9 have been linked to protection against cardiovascular heart disease, the prognostic value of PCSK9 as a biomarker for predicting MACE remains unclear. Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding the association between PCSK9 and cardiovascular events, with some studies indicating a predictive value and others finding no significant association. In the current study, PCSK9 levels increased with T2DM complications, such as previous MACE. Positive correlations were also observed between PCSK9 and markers of glucose homeostasis and lipid profile. However, PCSK9 levels demonstrated a sex-specific effect, with higher levels associated with increased MACE risk in women but not in men. Conclusions Approximately two-thirds of individuals with T2DM eventually developed ASCVD in the current study. Furthermore, the study findings indicate that serum PCSK9 levels can be considered part of a biomarker-driven approach to risk stratification. Additional research is needed to understand better the prognostic value of PCSK9 and its sex-specific implications in predicting cardiovascular events and mortality in T2DM patients. *Important notice: Research Square publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. Journal reference:

Jul 05

What Is Asthma?

What Is Asthma? Asthma is a chronic lung disease characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulties. It affects a significant number of people worldwide, with an estimated 262 million individuals living with asthma. This condition can occur at any age and is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Allergens, respiratory infections, and physical exertion are common triggers for asthma symptoms. Symptoms of asthma often include difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and a sensation of tightness in the chest. Diagnosing asthma typically involves a thorough physical examination, review of medical history, lung function tests, and sometimes allergy testing. Although asthma can significantly impact a person’s life, there are various effective treatments available. Medications and lifestyle modifications can help control symptoms and reduce the risk of asthma attacks, which are sudden and potentially life-threatening exacerbations of asthma symptoms. With proper management, individuals with asthma can lead active and fulfilling lives. Types Asthma is a complex condition that can manifest in various forms, categorized based on the underlying cause and triggers. Identifying the specific type of asthma a person has can aid healthcare providers in tailoring an appropriate treatment plan. The most common types of asthma include: 1. Allergic asthma: This type is triggered by exposure to allergens like dust mites, pollen, mold, or pet dander. Allergic reactions provoke the airway inflammation and narrowing. 2. Non-allergic asthma: Unlike allergic asthma, this type is not primarily triggered by allergens. It can be caused by irritants such as smoke, air pollution, strong odors, cold air, or respiratory infections. 3. Occupational asthma: This form of asthma is caused by exposure to harmful substances in the workplace. Prolonged contact with irritants like chemicals, dust, fumes, or gases can lead to the development of occupational asthma. 4. Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction: Some individuals experience asthma symptoms during or after physical activity. Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction occurs due to the loss of heat and/or water from the airways during exercise, resulting in airway narrowing and breathing difficulties. 5. Pediatric asthma: This type of asthma specifically affects children and often has genetic and environmental factors as underlying causes. It requires specialized management to address the unique needs of young individuals. It’s important to note that individuals with asthma may experience a combination of these types, as asthma is a complex and heterogeneous condition. Proper diagnosis and understanding of the asthma type can guide healthcare professionals in developing personalized treatment strategies. Asthma Symptoms Asthma symptoms can vary from person to person, with some experiencing mild and occasional symptoms, while others may have more severe and persistent symptoms. Here are some common symptoms associated with asthma: Shortness of breath: Individuals with asthma often have difficulty breathing, feeling as though they cannot take in enough air. This sensation of "air hunger" can be distressing and may be accompanied by a tightness or restriction in the chest. Wheezing: Wheezing is a characteristic high-pitched, whistling sound that occurs when air flows through narrowed airways during breathing. It is most commonly heard during exhalation. Coughing: Asthma-related coughing can be persistent and may occur at any time, but it often worsens at night or in the early morning. The cough may be dry or produce mucus/sputum. Chest tightness: Asthma can cause a sensation of pressure, tightness, or constriction in the chest. This feeling may be accompanied by discomfort, aching, or even sharp, stabbing pain. What Causes Asthma? Asthma is a complex condition influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While the exact cause of asthma is not fully understood, there are several known factors that contribute to its development: Environment: Exposure to allergens, such as pet dander, mold, pollen, and dust mites, can trigger asthma symptoms. Lung irritants like cigarette smoke and air pollution can also contribute to the development of asthma. Family history: Asthma tends to run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition. If you have a close family member with asthma, you may have a higher risk of developing the condition. Viral infections: Respiratory infections caused by viruses or bacteria during infancy and early childhood can affect lung and immune system development, potentially leading to asthma. In addition to these factors, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing asthma: Allergies or eczema: Individuals with allergies or eczema have a higher risk of developing asthma. Smoking: Active smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of asthma. Air pollution: Living in areas with high levels of air pollution can contribute to the development of asthma. Occupational exposure: Working in environments with lung irritants or chemicals can increase the risk of asthma. Obesity: Obesity is associated with a higher risk of asthma. Low birth weight or premature birth: Babies with low birth weight or those born prematurely may be at a greater risk of developing asthma. Biological sex: In childhood, asthma is more prevalent in boys, while in adulthood, it is more common in women. Hormonal factors may contribute to these differences. It’s important to note that having these risk factors does not necessarily mean that someone will develop asthma. It is a complex interplay of factors, and individual experiences may vary. Diagnosis To determine if you have asthma, your healthcare provider will assess your symptoms, medical history, and may conduct various diagnostic tests. The process typically involves the following steps: Symptom assessment: Your healthcare provider will inquire about your symptoms, including their frequency, triggers, and severity. They will also ask about any family history of asthma or allergies. Physical examination: A thorough physical examination will be conducted, focusing on the lungs and respiratory system. Your healthcare provider may listen to your lungs using a stethoscope to check for wheezing or other abnormal sounds. Diagnostic tests: Spirometry: This test measures how much air you can inhale and exhale and how quickly you can do so. It helps evaluate lung function and assesses for airflow obstruction, a characteristic feature of asthma. Peak flow meter: This handheld device measures the maximum speed at which you can forcefully exhale.