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Andersén H, Ilmarinen P, Honkamäki J, Tuomisto LE, Hisinger-Mölkänen H, Backman H, Lundbäck B, Rönmark E, Lehtimäki L, Sovijärvi A, Piirilä P, Kankaanranta H. Late Breaking Abstract - Childhood farming environment: Association to age at asthma diagnosis in a population-based study. Epidemiology 2021. [DOI: 10.1183/13993003.congress-2021.oa1327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Mäki-Heikkilä R, Karjalainen J, Parkkari J, Huhtala H, Valtonen M, Lehtimäki L. Higher prevalence but later age at onset of asthma in cross-country skiers compared with general population. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2021; 31:2259-2266. [PMID: 34449953 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cross-country skiing causes strain in the airways because skiers train and compete in cold air. The aim of this survey was to investigate the prevalence and age at onset of asthma, asthma control, and use of asthma medication in Finnish competitive cross-country skiers. All cross-country skiers who were enrolled in the largest national competitions in winter 2019 (n = 1282) were invited to the study via the Finnish Ski Association. A control group (n = 1733) was matched for the responding skiers by age, gender, and region. The response rate was 27.4% (n = 351) for skiers and 19.5% (n = 338) for the controls. The prevalence of asthma was 25.9% in skiers and 9.2% in the controls (p < 0.001). Median (IQR) age at first asthma-related symptoms was higher in skiers than in the controls (13.0 (8.25-16.0) vs. 8.0 (2.25-11.75) years, p < 0.001), and the difference in asthma prevalence was evident only after the start of skiing career. Median (IQR) Asthma Control Test (ACT) score in skiers and controls with asthma was 22.0 (21-24) vs. 22.0 (19-24) (p = 0.611), and 89.0% of skiers and 77.4% of controls had well-controlled asthma (ACT score ≥20). In skiers with asthma, 82.4% used regular inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), and 80.2% used bronchodilators. A fixed combination of ICS +long-acting β2-agonist was regularly used by 47.3% of the skiers and 22.6% of the controls with asthma (p = 0.016). In conclusion, asthma prevalence is about 2.5 times higher, and age at onset of asthma is later in skiers compared with the controls. Asthma in cross-country skiers is mostly well controlled and on regular maintenance treatment.
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Nynäs P, Vilpas S, Kankare E, Karjalainen J, Lehtimäki L, Numminen J, Tikkakoski A, Kleemola L, Uitti J. Clinical Findings among Patients with Respiratory Symptoms Related to Moisture Damage Exposure at the Workplace-The SAMDAW Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:1112. [PMID: 34574886 PMCID: PMC8466522 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9091112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory tract symptoms are associated with workplace moisture damage (MD). The focus of this observational clinical study was patients with workplace MD-associated symptoms, to evaluate the usefulness of different clinical tests in diagnostics in secondary healthcare with a special interest in improving the differential diagnostics between asthma and laryngeal dysfunction. METHODS In patients referred because of workplace MD-associated respiratory tract symptoms, we sought to systematically assess a wide variety of clinical findings. RESULTS New-onset asthma was diagnosed in 30% of the study patients. Laryngeal dysfunction was found in 28% and organic laryngeal changes in 22% of the patients, and these were common among patients both with and without asthma. Most of the patients (85%) reported a runny or stuffy nose, and 11% of them had chronic rhinosinusitis. Atopy was equally as common as in the general population. CONCLUSIONS As laryngeal changes were rather common, we recommend proper differential diagnostics with lung function testing and investigations of the larynx and its functioning, when necessary, in cases of prolonged workplace MD-associated symptoms. Chronic rhinosinusitis among these patients was not uncommon. Based on this study, allergy testing should not play a major role in the examination of these patients.
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Csonka P, Tapiainen T, Mäkelä MJ, Lehtimäki L. Heterogeneity of emergency treatment practices in wheezing preschool children. Acta Paediatr 2021; 110:2448-2454. [PMID: 33987866 DOI: 10.1111/apa.15915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM Our aim was to survey treatment practices used for preschool children with wheezing in emergency rooms (ER) focussing on inhalation device choice and handling, face mask use, salbutamol dosing and written instructions. We sought to assess whether current protocols are in line with published evidence and guidelines. METHODS This is a cross-sectional survey done in paediatric ER units located in Finnish municipalities with more than 10 000 inhabitants. RESULTS Of the 100 units contacted, 50% responded. More than 50% of the units used nebulisers. Only 13% of the units administered salbutamol in single puffs. More than 30% of the units lacked criteria on face mask use. Poor co-operation had no effect on the dose of salbutamol in 62% of the units. Ensuring tight mask-to-face seal was included in the training in 20% of the units. A written action plan was provided to the caregivers in 28% of the units. CONCLUSION ER treatment guidelines for preschool children with wheezing are poorly endorsed. Research is needed to identify approaches to guideline implementation that are specific for primary care. Clinical research should focus on strengthening recommendations that are currently not embraced. ER treatment protocols need to be updated and adherence to guidelines should be re-evaluated.
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Heaney LG, Perez de Llano L, Al-Ahmad M, Backer V, Busby J, Canonica GW, Christoff GC, Cosio BG, FitzGerald JM, Heffler E, Iwanaga T, Jackson DJ, Menzies-Gow AN, Papadopoulos NG, Papaioannou AI, Pfeffer PE, Popov TA, Porsbjerg CM, Rhee CK, Sadatsafavi M, Tohda Y, Wang E, Wechsler ME, Alacqua M, Altraja A, Bjermer L, Björnsdóttir US, Bourdin A, Brusselle GG, Buhl R, Costello RW, Hew M, Siyue MK, Lehmann S, Lehtimäki L, Peters M, Taillé C, Taube C, Tran TN, Zangrilli J, Bulathsinhala L, Carter VA, Chaudhry I, Eleangovan N, Hosseini N, Kerkhof M, Murray RB, Price CA, Price DB. Eosinophilic and Noneosinophilic Asthma: An Expert Consensus Framework to Characterize Phenotypes in a Global Real-Life Severe Asthma Cohort. Chest 2021; 160:814-830. [PMID: 33887242 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phenotypic characteristics of patients with eosinophilic and noneosinophilic asthma are not well characterized in global, real-life severe asthma cohorts. RESEARCH QUESTION What is the prevalence of eosinophilic and noneosinophilic phenotypes in the population with severe asthma, and can these phenotypes be differentiated by clinical and biomarker variables? STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS This was an historical registry study. Adult patients with severe asthma and available blood eosinophil count (BEC) from 11 countries enrolled in the International Severe Asthma Registry (January 1, 2015-September 30, 2019) were categorized according to likelihood of eosinophilic phenotype using a predefined gradient eosinophilic algorithm based on highest BEC, long-term oral corticosteroid use, elevated fractional exhaled nitric oxide, nasal polyps, and adult-onset asthma. Demographic and clinical characteristics were defined at baseline (ie, 1 year before or closest to date of BEC). RESULTS One thousand seven hundred sixteen patients with prospective data were included; 83.8% were identified as most likely (grade 3), 8.3% were identified as likely (grade 2), and 6.3% identified as least likely (grade 1) to have an eosinophilic phenotype, and 1.6% of patients showed a noneosinophilic phenotype (grade 0). Eosinophilic phenotype patients (ie, grades 2 or 3) showed later asthma onset (29.1 years vs 6.7 years; P < .001) and worse lung function (postbronchodilator % predicted FEV1, 76.1% vs 89.3%; P = .027) than those with a noneosinophilic phenotype. Patients with noneosinophilic phenotypes were more likely to be women (81.5% vs 62.9%; P = .047), to have eczema (20.8% vs 8.5%; P = .003), and to use anti-IgE (32.1% vs 13.4%; P = .004) and leukotriene receptor antagonists (50.0% vs 28.0%; P = .011) add-on therapy. INTERPRETATION According to this multicomponent, consensus-driven, and evidence-based eosinophil gradient algorithm (using variables readily accessible in real life), the severe asthma eosinophilic phenotype was more prevalent than previously identified and was phenotypically distinct. This pragmatic gradient algorithm uses variables readily accessible in primary and specialist care, addressing inherent issues of phenotype heterogeneity and phenotype instability. Identification of treatable traits across phenotypes should improve therapeutic precision.
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Karvonen T, Lehtimäki L. Effect of exhalation flow rates and level of nitric oxide output on accuracy of linear approximation of pulmonary nitric oxide dynamics. J Breath Res 2021; 15. [PMID: 33784646 DOI: 10.1088/1752-7163/abf3ab] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The method of Tsoukias and George (T and G) is a commonly used linear approximation of pulmonary nitric oxide (NO) dynamics that can be used to calculate bronchial NO output (JawNO) and alveolar NO concentration (CANO). We aimed to investigate how flow rate range in exhaled NO measurements and levels of pulmonary NO parameters affect the accuracy of the T and G method. This study has three parts. (a) A theoretical part demonstrating how different exhalation flow rates and NO parameter levels affect the accuracy of the T and G method, (b) testing how exhalation flow rate range affects the method in a sample of asthmatic and healthy subjects, and (c) a meta-analysis of published literature to test whether minimum flow rate has an association with the NO parameter values. We found that both the chosen exhalation flow rates and magnitude of the pulmonary NO parameters affect the accuracy of the T and G method. Underestimation ofJawNO increased with lower flow rates and higher bronchial diffusion factor of NO (DawNO), while overestimation of CANO increased with higher DawNO and bronchial wall NO concentration (CawNO) and lower CANO. Of the NO parameters, CANO was the most prone to bias and high DawNO was the most significant factor causing the bias. Furthermore, we found that using 40 ml s-1as the lowest flow rate in our sample and 50 ml s-1in the meta-analysis compared to 100 ml s-1resulted in higher CANO, but JawNO was not statistically significantly affected. We have provided objective evidence that not only the flow rates used but also the magnitude of NO output in the test subjects affect the accuracy of the T and G method. We suggest that flow rates below 100 ml s-1should not be used with the T and G method to maintain accuracy.
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Rantala HA, Leivo-Korpela S, Lehto JT, Lehtimäki L. Dyspnea on Exercise Is Associated with Overall Symptom Burden in Patients with Chronic Respiratory Insufficiency. Palliat Med Rep 2021; 2:48-53. [PMID: 34223503 PMCID: PMC8241384 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2020.0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Patients with chronic respiratory insufficiency suffer from many symptoms together with dyspnea. Objective: We evaluated the association of dyspnea on exercise with other symptoms in patients with chronic respiratory insufficiency due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or interstitial lung disease. Design: This retrospective study included 101 patients in Tampere University Hospital, Finland. Dyspnea on exercise was assessed with modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea questionnaire, and other symptoms were assessed with Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) and Depression Scale (DEPS). The study was approved by Regional Ethics Committee of Tampere University Hospital, Finland (approval code R15180/December 1, 2015). Results: Patients with mMRC 4 (most severe dyspnea) compared with those with mMRC 0–3 reported higher symptom scores on ESAS in shortness of breath (median 8.0 [IQR 6.0–9.0] vs. 4.0 [2.0–6.0], p < 0.001), dry mouth (7.0 [4.0–8.0] vs. 3.0 [1.0–6.0], p < 0.001), tiredness (6.0 [3.0–7.0] vs. 3.0 [1.0–5.0], p < 0.001), loss of appetite (3.0 [0.0–6.0] vs. 1.0 [0.0–3.0], p = 0.001), insomnia (3.0 [1.0–7.0] vs. 2.0 [0.0–3.0], p = 0.027), anxiety (3.0 [0.0–5.5] vs. 1.0 [0.0–3.0], p = 0.007), and nausea (0.0 [0.0–2.0] vs. 0.0 [0.0–0.3], p = 0.027). Patients with mMRC 4 were more likely to reach the DEPS threshold for depression than those scoring mMRC 0–3 (42.1% vs. 20.8%, p = 0.028). Conclusions: Patients with chronic respiratory insufficiency need comprehensive symptom screening with relevant treatment, as they suffer from broad symptom burden worsening with increased dyspnea on exercise.
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Andersén H, Kankaanranta H, Tuomisto LE, Piirilä P, Sovijärvi A, Langhammer A, Backman H, Lundbäck B, Rönmark E, Lehtimäki L, Ilmarinen P. Multimorbidity in Finnish and Swedish speaking Finns; association with daily habits and socioeconomic status - Nordic EpiLung cross-sectional study. Prev Med Rep 2021; 22:101338. [PMID: 33732608 PMCID: PMC7937573 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Multimorbidity is an emerging public health priority. This study aims to assess the role of lifestyle and socioeconomic status in the prevalence of multimorbidity and chronic diseases by using two language groups that are part of the same genetic subgroup but differ by daily habits. We conducted a cross-sectional survey in 2016 with randomly selected population sample with 4173 responders (52.3%) aged 20–69 years in Western Finland. We included 3864 Finnish participants with Swedish (28.1%) or Finnish (71.9%) as a native language. We used a questionnaire to assess participants' chronic diseases and lifestyle. We determined multimorbidity as a disease count ≥ 2. Finnish speakers were more likely to have a diagnosis of COPD, heart failure, diabetes, reflux disease, chronic kidney failure, and painful conditions than Swedish speakers. The prevalence of multimorbidity was higher for Finnish speakers in the age group of 60–69 years (41.0% vs. 32.0%, p = 0.018) than Swedish speakers. A higher proportion of Finnish speakers smoked, were obese, inactive, and had lower socioeconomic status compared to Swedish speakers. All these factors, in addition to age and female sex, were significant risk factors for multimorbidity. Prevalence of multimorbidity was different in two language groups living in the same area and was associated with differences in lifestyle factors such as smoking, physical inactivity and obesity.
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Lehtimäki L, Karvonen T, Högman M. Clinical Values of Nitric Oxide Parameters from the Respiratory System. Curr Med Chem 2021; 27:7189-7199. [PMID: 32493184 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666200603141847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) concentration reliably reflects central airway inflammation, but it is not sensitive to changes in the NO dynamics in the lung periphery. By measuring FENO at several different flow rates one can estimate alveolar NO concentration (CANO), bronchial NO flux (JawNO), bronchial wall NO concentration (CawNO) and the bronchial diffusivity of NO (DawNO). OBJECTIVE We aimed to describe the current knowledge and clinical relevance of NO parameters in different pulmonary diseases. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature search to identify publications reporting NO parameters in subjects with pulmonary or systemic diseases affecting the respiratory tract. A narrative review was created for those with clinical relevance. RESULTS Estimation of pulmonary NO parameters allows for differentiation between central and peripheral inflammation and a more precise analysis of central airway NO output. CANO seems to be a promising marker of parenchymal inflammation in interstitial lung diseases and also a marker of tissue damage and altered gas diffusion in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and systemic diseases affecting the lung. In asthma, CANO can detect small airway involvement left undetected by ordinary FENO measurement. Additionally, CawNO and DawNO can be used in asthma to assess if FENO is increased due to enhanced inflammatory activity (increased CawNO) or tissue changes related to bronchial remodelling (altered DawNO). CONCLUSION NO parameters may be useful for diagnosis, prediction of disease progression and prediction of treatment responses in different parenchymal lung and airway diseases. Formal trials to test the added clinical value of NO parameters are needed.
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Vähätalo I, Kankaanranta H, Tuomisto LE, Niemelä O, Lehtimäki L, Ilmarinen P. Long-term adherence to inhaled corticosteroids and asthma control in adult-onset asthma. ERJ Open Res 2021; 7:00715-2020. [PMID: 33585657 PMCID: PMC7869602 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00715-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In short-term studies, poor adherence to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) has been associated with worse asthma control, but the association of long-term adherence and disease control remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To assess the relationship between 12-year adherence to ICS and asthma control in patients with adult-onset asthma. METHODS As part of the Seinäjoki Adult Asthma Study, 181 patients with clinically confirmed new-onset adult asthma and regular ICS medication were followed-up for 12 years. Adherence (%) to ICS was assessed individually ((µg dispensed/µg prescribed)×100) during the follow-up. Asthma control was evaluated after 12 years of treatment according to the Global Initiative for Asthma 2010 guideline. RESULTS Asthma was controlled in 31% and not controlled (partly controlled or uncontrolled) in 69% of the patients. Patients with not-controlled asthma were more often male, older, nonatopic and used higher doses of ICS than those with controlled disease. The mean±sd 12-year adherence to ICS was 63±38% in patients with controlled asthma and 76±40% in patients with not-controlled disease (p=0.042). Among patients with not-controlled asthma, those with lower 12-year adherence (<80%) had more rapid decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (-47 mL·year-1) compared to patients with better adherence (≥80%) (-40 mL·year-1) (p=0.024). In contrast, this relationship was not seen in patients with controlled asthma. CONCLUSIONS In adult-onset asthma, patients with not-controlled disease showed better 12-year adherence to ICS treatment than those with controlled asthma. In not-controlled disease, adherence <80% was associated with more rapid lung function decline, underscoring the importance of early recognition of such patients in routine clinical practice.
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Csonka P, Tapiainen T, Mäkelä MJ, Lehtimäki L. Optimal administration of bronchodilators with valved holding chambers in preschool children: a review of literature. Eur J Pediatr 2021; 180:3101-3109. [PMID: 33877400 PMCID: PMC8055476 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-021-04074-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Our aim was to synthesize the published literature on factors that potentially affect the delivery of bronchodilators using valved holding chambers (VHC) in preschool children. We also aimed to identify those attributes that are not yet incorporated or clearly stated in the guidelines and those topics that are still lacking sufficient data. There is strong evidence supporting several recommendations in current guidelines. Based on present knowledge, bronchodilators should be delivered by VHC administering each puff separately. Face mask should be omitted as soon as the child can hold the mouthpiece of the VHC tightly between the lips and teeth. Based on the review, we suggest adding a specific note to current guidelines about the effect of chamber volume and the impact of co-operation during drug administration. Calming the child and securing a tight face-to-mask seal is critical for successful drug delivery. There is not enough evidence to make specific recommendations on the most reliable VHC and face mask for children. There is an urgent need for studies that evaluate and compare the effectiveness of VHCs in various clinical settings in wide age-groups and respiratory patterns. In addition, there is insufficient data on ideal chamber volume, material, and effective antistatic treatment. What is Known: • Valved holding chambers (VHC) should not be considered interchangeable when used with pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDI). • Drug delivery is influenced by VHC volume, aerodynamic and electrostatic properties; mask fit; respiratory pattern and co-operation during inhalation; and the number of puffs actuated. What is New: • The impact of co-operation, VHC volume, and good mask-to-face fit during drug inhalation is not stressed enough in the guidelines. • Studies are urgently needed to evaluate the effectiveness of different VHCs in various clinical settings focusing on VHC electrostatic properties, respiratory patters, face masks, and ideal pMDI+VHC combinations.
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Honkamäki J, Piirilä P, Hisinger-Mölkänen H, Tuomisto LE, Andersén H, Huhtala H, Sovijärvi A, Lindqvist A, Backman H, Lundbäck B, Rönmark E, Lehtimäki L, Pallasaho P, Ilmarinen P, Kankaanranta H. Asthma Remission by Age at Diagnosis and Gender in a Population-Based Study. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY-IN PRACTICE 2020; 9:1950-1959.e4. [PMID: 33338683 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2020.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child-onset asthma is known to remit with high probability, but remission in adult-onset asthma is seemingly less frequent. Reports of the association between remission and asthma age of onset up to late adulthood are scarce. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between asthma remission, age at diagnosis and gender, and assess risk factors of nonremission. METHODS In 2016, a random sample of 16,000 subjects aged 20 to 69 years from Helsinki and Western Finland were sent a FinEsS questionnaire. Physician-diagnosed asthma was categorized by age at diagnosis to early- (0-11 years), intermediate- (12-39 years), and late-diagnosed (40-69 years) asthma. Asthma remission was defined by not having had asthma symptoms and not having used asthma medication in the past 12 months. RESULTS Totally, 8199 (51.5%) responded, and 879 reported physician-diagnosed asthma. Remission was most common in early-diagnosed (30.2%), followed by intermediate-diagnosed (17.9%), and least common in late-diagnosed asthma (5.0%) (P < .001), and the median times from diagnosis were 27, 18.5, and 10 years, respectively. In males, the corresponding remission rates were 36.7%, 20.0%, and 3.4%, and in females, 20.4%, 16.6%, and 5.9% (gender difference P < .001). In multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, significant risk factors of asthma nonremission were intermediate (odds ratio [OR] = 2.15, 95% confidence interval: 1.37-3.36) and late diagnosis (OR = 11.06, 4.82-25.37) compared with early diagnosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (OR = 5.56, 1.26-24.49), allergic rhinitis (OR = 2.28, 1.50-3.46), and family history of asthma (OR = 1.86, 1.22-2.85). Results were similar after excluding COPD. CONCLUSION Remission was rare in adults diagnosed with asthma after age 40 years in both genders. Late-diagnosed asthma was the most significant independent risk factor for nonremission.
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Andersén H, Ilmarinen P, Honkamäki J, Tuomisto LE, Piirilä P, Hisinger-Mölkänen H, Sovijärvi A, Backman H, Lundbäck B, Rönmark E, Lehtimäki L, Kankaanranta H. Dyspnea has an association with lifestyle: differences between Swedish and Finnish speaking persons in Western Finland. Eur Clin Respir J 2020; 8:1855702. [PMID: 33343838 PMCID: PMC7733976 DOI: 10.1080/20018525.2020.1855702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Difference in dyspnea mMRC ≥2 between Finnish speaking and Swedish-speaking populations in Finland has not been previously studied. Methods In February 2016, a respiratory questionnaire was sent to 8000 randomly selected subjects aged 20–69 years in western Finland with a response rate of 52.3%. The registered native language of each subject determined whether questionnaire in Finnish or Swedish was applied. Multiple logistic regression was performed to calculate Odds Ratios (OR) with 95% CI for the simultaneous effects of independent variables on dyspnea mMRC ≥2. Results Of all participants, 2780 (71.9%) were Finnish speakers and 1084 (28.1%) were Swedish speakers. Finnish speakers had a higher prevalence of dyspnea mMRC ≥2 (11.1% vs 6.5% p < 0.001) when compared to Swedish speakers. Finnish speakers smoked more often, had higher BMI, spent less time moving during the day, had more often occupational exposure to vapours, gases, dusts or fumes (VGDF), and had lower socioeconomic status based on occupation. Significant risk factors for dyspnea mMRC ≥2 were COPD (OR = 10.94), BMI >35 (OR = 9.74), asthma (OR = 4.78), female gender (OR = 2.38), older age (OR = 2.20), current smoking (OR = 1.59), and occupational exposure to VGDF (OR = 1.47). Conclusions Swedish speakers had less dyspnea mMRC ≥2 which is explained by a healthier lifestyle. Smoking, obesity, and occupational exposures should be in focus to improve respiratory health.
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Rantala HA, Leivo-Korpela S, Kettunen S, Lehto JT, Lehtimäki L. Survival and end-of-life aspects among subjects on long-term noninvasive ventilation. Eur Clin Respir J 2020; 8:1840494. [PMID: 33209213 PMCID: PMC7646568 DOI: 10.1080/20018525.2020.1840494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The need for noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is commonly considered a predictor of poor survival, but life expectancy may vary depending on the underlying disease. We studied the factors associated with decreased survival and end-of-life characteristics in an unselected population of subjects starting NIV. Methods We conducted a retrospective study including 205 subjects initiating NIV from 1/1/2012-31/12/2015 who were followed up until 31/12/2017. Results The median survival time was shorter in subjects needing help with activities of daily living than in independent subjects (hazard ratio (HR) for death 1.7, 95% CI 1.2–2.6, P = 0.008) and was also shorter in subjects on long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) than in those not on LTOT (HR for death 2.8, 95% CI 1.9–4.3, P < 0.001). There was marked difference in survival according to the disease necessitating NIV, and subjects with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or interstitial lung disease seemed to have the shortest survival. The two most common diseases resulting in the need for NIV were chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). The median survival time was 4.4 years in COPD subjects, but the median survival time was not reached in subjects with OHS (HR for death COPD vs. OHS: 3.2, 95% CI 1.9–5.5, P < 0.001). Most of the deceased subjects (55.6%) died in the hospital, while only 20.0% died at home. The last hospitalization admission leading to death occurred through the emergency room in 44.4% of the subjects. Conclusions Survival among subjects starting NIV in this real-life study varied greatly depending on the disease and degree of functional impairment. Subjects frequently died in the hospital after admission through the emergency department. A comprehensive treatment approach with timely advance care planning is therefore needed, especially for those needing help with activities of daily living and those with both NIV and LTOT.
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Karvonen T, Sepponen-Lavikko A, Holm K, Schultz R, Moilanen E, Lehtimäki L. Onset of action of inhaled glucocorticoids on bronchial and alveolar nitric oxide output. J Breath Res 2020; 15:016008. [PMID: 33045700 DOI: 10.1088/1752-7163/abc054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) is a marker of airway inflammation. Measuring FENO at multiple flow rates enables calculation of NO parameters: bronchial NO output (J awNO), bronchial wall (C awNO) and alveolar (C ANO) NO concentrations, and bronchial diffusion factor of NO (D awNO). FENO is known to rapidly reduce after the commencement of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) treatment. However, little is known on the effect of ICS on the other NO parameters. We assessed (1) the onset of action of ICS treatment on the NO parameters and (2) whether the changes in bronchial NO output are due to changes in bronchial wall NO concentration or diffusion factor. FENO and other NO parameters were measured at baseline and after 1, 3 and 7 d of treatment with inhaled fluticasone propionate 250 μg b.i.d. in 23 allergic children with a history of asthma-like symptoms. There was a decrease in J awNO (from 680 (244/1791) (median (1st/3rd quartile)) to 357 (165/753) pl s-1, p < 0.001) and FENO50( from 13.8 (7.5/35) to 8.3 (5.36/17.0) ppb, p < 0.001) in 3 d from the first dose of ICS. Also, C awNO seemed to reduce after 3 d (from 171 (89/328) to 79 (54/157) ppb, p = 0.041), while D awNO remained unchanged. Furthermore, C ANO reduced during the 7 d treatment (from 3.0 (2.0/5.0) to 2.3 (1.9/2.6) ppb, p = 0.004). ICS treatment reduced FENO50 and J awNO rapidly and the decline was caused by decreased bronchial wall NO concentration while bronchial NO diffusion factor remained unchanged. These findings suggest that C awNO could be a more specific marker of airway inflammation and treatment response than J awNO or FENO50, which are both determined also by D awNO that seems to be resistant to the treatment with ICS.
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Mäki-Heikkilä R, Karjalainen J, Parkkari J, Valtonen M, Lehtimäki L. Asthma in Competitive Cross-Country Skiers: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Sports Med 2020; 50:1963-1981. [PMID: 32915429 PMCID: PMC7575483 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-020-01334-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In cross-country skiing, the repetitive ventilation of large amounts of cold and dry air strains the airways. The aim of this systematic review was to establish an overview of the current literature on asthma in cross-country skiers, biathletes and ski-orienteers. METHODS Six databases were searched on August 29, 2019. The search yielded 2161 articles. Thirty articles fulfilled the search criteria and were pooled together for a qualitative synthesis. Eight articles were included in the meta-analysis on the prevalence of asthma and the use of asthma medication. RESULTS According to the meta-analysis, the prevalence of self-reported physician-diagnosed asthma in skiers was 21% (95% CI 14-28%). The onset age of asthma was higher in skiers than in non-skiers with asthma. The prevalence of asthma medication use was on average 23% (CI 95% 19-26%). Several studies reported that asthma was underdiagnosed in skiers, as previously healthy skiers without a prior asthma diagnosis or medication use were frequently found to fulfill diagnostic criteria for asthma according to lung function tests. Studies using bronchial biopsy demonstrated that eosinophilic asthma is not detected in skiers with asthma as often as it is in non-skiers with asthma and that there are signs of airway inflammation even in non-asthmatic skiers. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that the accuracy and coverage of diagnosing asthma in skiers has improved over the recent decades. However, the optimal treatment and natural course of asthma in this population remain unclear. Future research should investigate how the intensity of training, airway infections and their treatment affect the development of asthma among skiers. PRD REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42017070940.
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Lehto JT, Leivo-Korpela S, Korhonen T, Rantala HA, Raunio H, Lyly-Yrjänäinen T, Lehtimäki L. Mouthpiece ventilation in the management of dyspnea: A single-arm pilot study. Palliat Med 2020; 34:1274-1278. [PMID: 32579086 PMCID: PMC7495670 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320935003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Noninvasive ventilation may relieve dyspnea in advanced diseases, but noninvasive ventilation through mouthpiece has not been tested in palliative care. AIM To assess the feasibility of mouthpiece ventilation in relieving dyspnea among patients with advanced disease. DESIGN In this prospective single-arm pilot study, the change in dyspnea by mouthpiece ventilation was measured with numeric rating scale (0-10) and 100-mm visual analogue scale. Overall, benefit and adverse events of the therapy were also assessed. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Twenty-two patients with an advanced disease and dyspnea from the Tampere University Hospital or Pirkanmaa Hospice were treated with mouthpiece ventilation. The patients used mouthpiece ventilation as long as they preferred, but for a minimum of 5 min. RESULTS After the treatment period lasting a median of 13.5 min, mean decrease in dyspnea was -1.1 (95 % confidence interval = -2.2 to -0.1, p = 0.034) on numeric rating scale and -11.8 mm (95 % confidence interval = -19.9 to -3.7, p = 0.006) on visual analogue scale. Nonetheless, there was a high variability in this effect between individual patients. About half of the patients found mouthpiece ventilation beneficial. No serious adverse events occurred, but dry mouth was the most common adverse event. Anxiety did not increase with mouthpiece ventilation. CONCLUSION Mouthpiece ventilation is feasible and may relieve dyspnea in some patients with an advanced disease. Further studies are needed, and these might concentrate on stable patients in early palliative care. Before initiation, this study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (study no. NCT03012737).
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Andersén H, Kankaanranta H, Tuomisto LE, Piirilä P, Sovijärivi A, Langhammer A, Backman H, Rönmark E, Lundbäck B, Lehtimäki L, Ilmarinen P. Multimorbidity in Finnish and Swedish speaking Finns – association with daily habits and socioeconomic status – A Nordic EpiLung study. Epidemiology 2020. [DOI: 10.1183/13993003.congress-2020.1432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Mäki-Heikkilä R, Karjalainen J, Parkkari J, Valtonen M, Lehtimäki L. Asthma in Finnish competitive cross-country skiers. Epidemiology 2020. [DOI: 10.1183/13993003.congress-2020.2606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Honkamäki J, Piirilä P, Hisinger-Mölkänen H, Tuomisto LE, Andersen H, Huhtala H, Sovijärvi A, Backman H, Lundbäck B, Rönmark E, Lehtimäki L, Pallasaho P, Ilmarinen P, Kankaanranta H. Age at asthma diagnosis and probability of remission in a population-based study. Epidemiology 2020. [DOI: 10.1183/13993003.congress-2020.4641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Hisinger-Mölkänen H, Honkamäki J, Kankaanranta H, Tuomisto LE, Sovijärvi A, Rönmark E, Lundbäck B, Backman H, Andersen H, Lindqvist A, Lehtimäki L, Pallasaho P, Ilmarinen P, Piirilä P. Asthma in adults: association of asthma symptoms and age at asthma diagnosis. Epidemiology 2020. [DOI: 10.1183/13993003.congress-2020.1399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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FitzGerald JM, Tran TN, Alacqua M, Altraja A, Backer V, Bjermer L, Bjornsdottir U, Bourdin A, Brusselle G, Bulathsinhala L, Busby J, Canonica GW, Carter V, Chaudhry I, Cho YS, Christoff G, Cosio BG, Costello RW, Eleangovan N, Gibson PG, Heaney LG, Heffler E, Hew M, Hosseini N, Iwanaga T, Jackson DJ, Jones R, Koh MS, Le T, Lehtimäki L, Ludviksdottir D, Maitland-van der Zee AH, Menzies-Gow A, Murray RB, Papadopoulos NG, Perez-de-Llano L, Peters M, Pfeffer PE, Popov TA, Porsbjerg CM, Price CA, Rhee CK, Sadatsafavi M, Tohda Y, Wang E, Wechsler ME, Zangrilli J, Price DB. International severe asthma registry (ISAR): protocol for a global registry. BMC Med Res Methodol 2020; 20:212. [PMID: 32819285 PMCID: PMC7439682 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-020-01065-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Severe asthma exerts a disproportionately heavy burden on patients and health care. Due to the heterogeneity of the severe asthma population, many patients need to be evaluated to understand the clinical features and outcomes of severe asthma in order to facilitate personalised and targeted care. The International Severe Asthma Registry (ISAR) is a multi-country registry project initiated to aid in this endeavour. Methods ISAR is a multi-disciplinary initiative benefitting from the combined experience of the ISAR Steering Committee (ISC; comprising 47 clinicians and researchers across 29 countries, who have a special interest and/or experience in severe asthma management or establishment and maintenance of severe asthma registries) in collaboration with scientists and experts in database management and communication. Patients (≥18 years old) receiving treatment according to the 2018 definitions of the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) Step 5 or uncontrolled on GINA Step 4 treatment will be included. Data will be collected on a core set of 95 variables identified using the Delphi method. Participating registries will agree to provide access to and share standardised anonymous patient-level data with ISAR. ISAR is a registered data source on the European Network of Centres for Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance. ISAR’s collaborators include Optimum Patient Care, the Respiratory Effectiveness Group (REG) and AstraZeneca. ISAR is overseen by the ISC, REG, the Anonymised Data Ethics & Protocol Transparency Committee and the ISAR operational committee, ensuring the conduct of ethical, clinically relevant research that brings value to all key stakeholders. Conclusions ISAR aims to offer a rich source of real-life data for scientific research to understand and improve disease burden, treatment patterns and patient outcomes in severe asthma. Furthermore, the registry will provide an international platform for research collaboration in respiratory medicine, with the overarching aim of improving primary and secondary care of adults with severe asthma globally.
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Tommola M, Won HK, Ilmarinen P, Jung H, Tuomisto LE, Lehtimäki L, Niemelä O, Kim TB, Kankaanranta H. Relationship between age and bronchodilator response at diagnosis in adult-onset asthma. Respir Res 2020; 21:179. [PMID: 32660470 PMCID: PMC7359254 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-020-01441-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Possible variation in bronchodilator response (BDR) according to age at the diagnosis of adult-onset asthma is unknown. Our aim was to assess if BDR in FEV1 is related to age at diagnosis of adult-onset asthma and how many subjects fulfill the 400 mL criterion of BDR, the suggested cut-off for asthma-like reversibility in asthma-COPD overlap (ACO). METHODS A total of 1030 patients with adult-onset asthma were included; 245 from SAAS (Seinäjoki Adult Asthma Study, Finland) and 785 from COREA (Cohort for Reality and Evolution of Adult Asthma in Korea) cohorts. BDR in FEV1 at the diagnosis of asthma was assessed. Patients were divided into groups based on age at asthma diagnosis: < 40, 40-59.9, and ≥ 60 years. The cohorts were analyzed separately. RESULTS BDR % in FEV1 did not differ between the groups of different age at asthma diagnosis and no correlation between BDR and age was found. Of patients aged ≥40 years, only 18% (SAAS-cohort) and 5% (COREA-cohort) reached the 400 mL BDR in FEV1. After exclusion of possible ACO patients, the results remained similar. CONCLUSION By using two large cohorts of steroid-naive patients with asthma, we have shown that BDR at diagnosis of asthma is constant over large age span range, and the limit of 400 mL in BDR in FEV1 is rarely reached. TRIAL REGISTRATION Seinäjoki Adult Asthma Study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with identifier number NCT02733016 .
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Lehtimäki L, Björnsdóttir U, Janson C, Haahtela T. Minimising the environmental impact of inhaled therapies. Eur Respir J 2020; 55:55/5/2000721. [PMID: 32461339 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00721-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Kiljander T, Poussa T, Helin T, Jaakkola A, Venho K, Lehtimäki L. Symptom control among asthmatics with a clinically significant smoking history: a cross-sectional study in Finland. BMC Pulm Med 2020; 20:88. [PMID: 32293381 PMCID: PMC7158041 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-020-1127-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Surprisingly little is known about asthma control among asthmatics who smoke. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate asthma symptom control according to the GINA guidelines among asthmatics with a clinically significant smoking history. Methods One hundred ninety asthmatics from primary care in Finland were investigated. The patients were current or previous cigarette smokers with a history of 10 or more pack-years. They completed a questionnaire including questions on asthma symptoms and reliever use so that their level of asthma symptom control (well controlled, partly controlled, or uncontrolled) according to GINA could be determined. Results Sixty-six (34.7%) patients had their asthma well controlled, 81 (42.6%) had their asthma partly controlled, and 43 (22.6%) had uncontrolled asthma. Current smokers had uncontrolled asthma more often than ex-smokers, OR 2.54 (95% CI 1.25–5.14, p = 0.01). Patients with moderate to severe asthma exacerbation during the previous year had uncontrolled asthma more often than patients without an exacerbation, OR 2.17 (95% CI 1.06–4.47, p = 0.04), and patients with FEV1 < 80% of predicted had uncontrolled asthma more often than patients with FEV1 > 80% of predicted, OR 2.04 (95% CI 1.02–4.08, p = 0.04). Conclusions Asthmatic patients with a clinically significant smoking history often do not have well controlled asthma. Poor asthma symptom control was associated with current smoking status, history of exacerbations and impaired lung function. Therefore, every attempt should be made to help asthmatics who smoke to quit smoking.
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