Asthma in the 21st Century: New Research Advances

Asthma in the 21st Century: New Research Advances provides an overview of asthma, discussing its heterogeneity, risk factors, and interrelations, and e-health in an aging world. The book covers new risk factors, diagnoses with climate change, chemical exposures, e-health, and advances in diet, microbiota, genetics, and the asthma versus COPD debate. Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children, with an estimated 270 million sufferers worldwide and 100 million expected to develop by 2025.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 13 September 2022
Publisher: Elsevier Science & Technology

Asthma in the 21st Century: New Research Advances offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted condition known as asthma, delving into its diverse aspects, risk factors, and intricate interrelationships. Drawing upon the latest research insights, the book provides a comprehensive overview of asthma, encompassing its heterogeneity beyond severe cases, emerging risk factors, the impact of climate change on diagnoses, the significance of chemical exposures within homes, the role of e-health in an aging world, and the connections between asthma and aging. It also highlights notable advancements in key areas such as diet and microbiota, genetics of asthma, and the ongoing debate between asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

According to estimates, approximately 270 million individuals worldwide are currently affected by asthma, with an additional 100 million expected to develop the disease by 2025. Asthma ranks as the most prevalent chronic condition among children, highlighting its significant impact on a growing population. While there exist numerous clinical books dedicated to asthma, few of them delve deeply into the latest scientific findings and advancements in understanding the disease. However, over the past 5–10 years, the concept of asthma has undergone a rapid evolution, presenting challenges for clinicians to keep pace with the latest discoveries.

The book's chapters are organized into several sections, each addressing different aspects of asthma. The first section explores the heterogeneity of asthma, highlighting the diverse manifestations and underlying causes of the condition. It discusses the importance of recognizing and understanding the unique characteristics of asthma patients to provide tailored treatment strategies. The second section examines the risk factors associated with asthma, including genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, respiratory infections, and occupational hazards. The authors shed light on the interplay between these factors and the development of asthma, emphasizing the need for preventive measures and early intervention.

The third section explores the interrelationships between asthma and other chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and mental health disorders. The authors discuss the potential bidirectional effects of these conditions on asthma and the importance of holistic management for optimal patient outcomes. The fourth section focuses on the impact of climate change on asthma, including the rise in asthma-related emergencies, changes in pollen patterns, and the exacerbation of symptoms due to air pollution. The authors provide insights into the mechanisms underlying climate change-induced asthma and the strategies for mitigating its effects.

The fifth section explores the role of e-health in asthma management, particularly in the context of an aging population. The authors discuss the benefits of telemedicine, remote monitoring, and digital health technologies in improving patient care, reducing hospitalizations, and enhancing patient education. They also address the challenges associated with implementing e-health solutions and the need for ensuring accessibility and equity in healthcare.

The final section highlights notable advances in key areas of asthma research, including diet and microbiota, genetics of asthma, and the asthma versus COPD debate. The authors discuss the latest findings on the relationship between diet, gut microbiome, and asthma development, the genetic factors contributing to asthma susceptibility, and the differences between asthma and COPD in terms of symptoms, treatment, and prognosis. They also explore the ongoing discussion on the optimal management strategies for these conditions and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing asthma research.

In conclusion, Asthma in the 21st Century: New Research Advances serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, and individuals affected by asthma. By providing a comprehensive overview of the disease, its risk factors, interrelationships, and advancements in key areas, the book offers a deeper understanding of asthma and its management in the modern world. As asthma continues to be a significant public health concern, this book provides a timely and essential contribution to the field, empowering individuals with asthma and those involved in their care to make informed decisions and improve their quality of life.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 235 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780323854191