Climate Change and Global Issues in Allergy and Immunology

The Impact of Climate, Aeroallergens, Pollution, and Altitude on Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) with or without underlying asthma is a condition with complex pathophysiology, where many factors play a role in its development and clinical presentation. EIB can be impacted by various environmental factors including climate, environmental allergens, air pollution, and altitude. Although it might be hard to escape one's environment, patients should nevertheless be counseled on how the environment could impact their symptoms. Patient education regarding environmental factors could help overcome impediments to exercise and improve performance.

Pollen season variations among anemophilous species in an Atlantic-influenced mediterranean environment: a long term study (1993-2022)

Numerous studies have shown that climate change is impacting the airborne pollen concentration of various anemophilous plant species, both herbaceous and woody. The aim of this study was to determine whether this trend, highly marked in Europe, is also occurring in the city of Huelva (south-western Spain), an area with a milder Mediterranean climate. The factors influencing the main pollen season were studied for all local taxa accounting for more than 1% of the total pollen collected, over the period 1993-2022, using a volumetric Hirst type trap to determine concentration. The study included a trend analysis of meteorological variables susceptible to climate change, specifically maximum, minimum and average temperature, precipitation and the number of hours of insolation per day. Although some of the variables analysed do not show significant trends for most taxa, such as start date or peak date, the overall results indicate a trend in the airborne pollen dynamics for herbaceous and woody taxa. Six of the eight woody taxa studied showed a significant trend towards increased pollen concentration, some of which are associated with temperature in previous seasons. In contrast, three of the five herbaceous taxa, which are more sensitive to short term meteorological variables, show a significant acceleration in the end date of the main pollen season, correlated negatively with temperature and insolation. In conclusion, some incipient changes are occurring, which may be indicative of future consequences on biodiversity in the Mediterranean area influenced by the Atlantic Ocean.

The Health Impacts of Air Pollution in the Context of Changing Climate in Africa: A Narrative Review with Recommendations for Action

Introduction: Despite the broad improvement in air quality, air pollution remains a major leading global risk factor for ill health and deaths each year. Air pollution has a significant impact on both health and economic growth in Africa. This paper reviews the health impacts of air pollution and the benefits of air pollution mitigation and prevention on climate change. Methods: We conducted a narrative review and synthesized current literature on the health impact of air pollution in the context of changing climate in Africa. Results: Particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations in Africa pose significant health risks due to various sources, including household fuels and industrial emissions. Limited air quality monitoring hampers accurate assessment and public health planning. Africa's rapid urbanization exacerbates air pollution, impacting vulnerable populations disproportionately. Renewable energy adoption and improved monitoring infrastructure are crucial for mitigating air pollution's economic and health impacts. Recommendations include adopting air quality standards, identifying pollution sources, and prioritizing interventions for vulnerable groups. Integrating renewable energy into development plans is essential for sustainable growth. African leaders must prioritize environmental policies to safeguard public health amid ongoing industrialization. Conclusions: Air pollution prevention remains a vital concern that requires leaders to engage stakeholders, and other opinion leaders in society. African leaders should proactively explore new avenues to integrate non‑polluting renewable energy sources such as solar power, wind and hydropower into their national development plans.

Isobavachin attenuates FcεRI-mediated inflammatory allergic responses by regulating SHP-1-dependent Fyn/Lyn/Syk/Lck signaling

Isobavachin, isolated from Psoralea corylifolia L. exhibits therapeutic potential for osteoporosis or skin disease. Here, we evaluated the pharmacological effects of isobavachin on IgE-dependent inflammatory allergic reactions, as well as the underlying mechanisms, in bone marrow-derived mast cells and a mouse model of passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA). Isobavachin reduced IgE/Ag-stimulated degranulation, eicosanoid (leukotriene C4 and prostaglandin D2) generation, and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-6). Mechanistic studies revealed that isobavachin suppressed activation of Fyn, Lyn, spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), and lymphocyte-specific-protein-kinase (Lck), receptor-proximal tyrosine kinases that initiate and play a central role in FcɛRI-mediated mast cell activation, as well as their common downstream signaling molecules including linker for activation of T cells, phospholipase Cγ1, AKT, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and intracellular Ca2+. Additionally, isobavachin increased phosphorylation of Src homology region 2 domain-containing phosphatase-1 (SHP-1), thereby strengthening its interaction with Syk and Lck as well as Fyn and Lyn, resulting in de-phosphorylation of these proximal tyrosine kinases. Genetic knockdown of SHP-1 reversed the inhibitory effects of isobavachin on mast cell activation, as well as the related signaling pathways, indicating that the inhibitory effects of isobavachin are mediated by negative regulation of SHP-1-dependent Fyn, Lyn, Syk and Lck. The anti-inflammatory properties of isobavachin were also examined in macrophages. Isobavachin suppressed production of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide. Furthermore, oral administration of isobavachin attenuated mast cell-mediated PCA reactions in mice. These results suggest that isobavachin is a potential treatment for mast cell-mediated allergic inflammatory diseases.

Global change, climate change, and asthma in children: Direct and indirect effects - A WAO Pediatric Asthma Committee Report

The twenty-first century has seen a fundamental shift in disease epidemiology with anthropogenic environmental change emerging as the likely dominant factor affecting the distribution and severity of current and future human disease. This is especially true of allergic diseases and asthma with their intimate relationship with the natural environment. Climate change-related variables including increased ambient temperature, heat waves, extreme weather events, air pollution, and rainfall distribution, all can directly affect asthma in children, but each of these variables also indirectly affects asthma via alterations in pollen production and release, outdoor allergen exposure or the microbiome. Air pollution, with its many and varied respiratory consequences, is likely to have the greatest effect, as it has increased globally due to rapid increases in fossil fuel combustion, global population, crowding, and megacities, as well as forest burning and trees succumbing to an increasingly hostile environment. Human activities have also caused substantial deterioration of the global microbiome with reductions in biodiversity for molds, bacteria, and viruses. Reduced microbiome diversity has, in turn, been associated with increases in Th2 allergic responses and allergic disease. The collective effect of these changes has already shifted allergy and asthma disease patterns. Given that changes in climate have been relatively small to date, the unavoidable, much greater shifts in climate in the future are concerning. Determining the relative scale of the direct versus indirect effects of climate change variables is needed if effective avoidance and adaptive measures are to be implemented. This would also require much more basic, epidemiological, and clinical research to understand the causal mechanisms, the most relevant climate factors involved, the regions most affected and, most importantly, effective and actionable adaptation measures. We suggest that allergy and respiratory health workers should follow current guidance to reduce present risks related to climate change and watch for new recommendations to reduce future risks. Since the respiratory system is the one most affected by climate change, they also need to call for more research in this area and show strong leadership in advocating for urgent action to protect children by reducing or reversing factors that have led to our deteriorating climate.

Ambient air pollution and risk of allergic respiratory diseases in European and East Asian populations: A Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Ambient air pollution has become a challenging global health issue since industrialization, especially affecting respiratory diseases. However, the causal link between air pollution and allergic respiratory diseases (ARDs) remains unclear due to confounding factors in conventional epidemiological studies across different populations. Thus, we aimed to clarify the causal associations between air pollution and ARDs in European and East Asian populations using Mendelian randomization (MR).

METHODS

MR utilizes genetic variants and provides a satisfactory level of causal evidence. Genetic data for exposures (PM2.5, PM2.5 absorbance, PM10, PMcoarse, NO2 and NOx) and outcomes (allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, asthma, and obesity related asthma) were obtained from genome-wide association studies. Instrumental variables were strictly filtered based on core assumptions. Two-sample MR and sensitivity analyses were conducted separately for European and East Asian populations.

RESULTS

PMcoarse was causally associated with an increased risk of chronic rhinosinusitis (OR = 1.588 [1.002-2.518]; p = 0.049) and obesity related asthma (OR = 1.956 [1.012-3.780]; p = 0.046) in European population, and PM10 was associated with a decreased risk of allergic rhinitis in East Asian population (OR = 0.882 [0.798-0.974]; p = 0.013). No heterogeneity or pleiotropy was detected in any significant causal association.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that ambient air pollution has opposite impacts on the etiology of ARDs in European and East Asian populations, which provides evidence for decisions on public policies and suggests that different responses to environmental factors such as air pollution may contribute to racial heterogeneity of ARDs.

Correlation Between mRNA Expression of Activated Eosinophils and Air Pollutant Exposure in Patients With Asthma

BACKGROUND

Eosinophil activation is associated with asthma. Whether air pollution affects the activation of blood eosinophils in patients with asthma remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the correlation between transcriptional activity in eosinophils and air pollutant exposure in patients receiving different levels of Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) treatment.

METHODS

We evaluated the expression levels of activation- and function-related genes in eosinophils from patients with GINA 4 or 5 (n = 20), those with GINA 3 (n = 12), and normal individuals (n = 7); the eosinophils were activated with interleukin (IL)-5 or IL-17. A land use regression model was used to estimate air pollutant exposure. The correlations between mRNA expression, lung function, and air pollutant exposure were investigated.

RESULTS

The expression levels of TGFB1, IL7R, and TLR3 were significantly higher for patients with GINA 4 or 5 than for those with GINA 3 or normal individuals. The expression of certain genes, particularly in IL-17-activated eosinophils, was correlated with lung function decline in patients with GINA 4 or 5. For patients with GINA 4 or 5, NO2 exposure was correlated with upregulated TGFB1 expression in IL-5-activated eosinophils. For patients with GINA 3, O3 exposure was correlated with upregulated CCR5, IL5RA, IL7R, and TGFB1 expression in IL-17-activated eosinophils and upregulated IL7R expression in IL-5-activated eosinophils.

CONCLUSION

Patients with GINA 4 or 5 may exhibit elevated transcriptional activity in eosinophils; this elevation is correlated with lung function decline. Air pollution may affect eosinophil mRNA expression in patients with asthma.

Global, regional, and national burden and trends of air pollution-related neoplasms from 1990 to 2019: An observational trend study from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

BACKGROUND

Air pollution-related neoplasms are a major global public health issue and are one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Air pollution is one of the important risk factors of air pollution-related neoplasms and is associated with a variety of air pollution-related neoplasms.The primary objective of this study was to estimate the epidemiological patterns of death rates and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) associated with air pollution-related neoplasms on a global scale, covering the period from 1990 to 2019. Furthermore, we aimed to predict the trends in these epidemiological patterns up to 2050. By achieving these goals, our study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential causes underlying the observed disparities in neoplasm-related health outcomes, ultimately contributing to the development of effective strategies for addressing this major public health issue.

METHODS

Based on data from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study, the indicators of the air pollution-related neoplasms disease burden was the numbers and age-standardized rates (ASR) of deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) from 1990 to 2019. First, we compared the burden of air pollution-related neoplasms and temporal trends by gender, age, socio-demographic index (SDI), region, and country. Furthermore, driving factors and improvement potential were evaluated using decomposition and frontier analysis. Finally, forecasting analyses of the changing trend in the burden of air pollution-related neoplasm up to 2050 was conducted based on time series forecasting models.

RESULTS

In 2019, air pollution-related neoplasms accounted for 387.45 million (95 % UI 288.04-490.06 million) deaths and 8951.97 million (95 % UI 6680.89-11342.60 million) DALYs globally. Deaths and DALYs demonstrated an upward trend from 1990 to 2019, while their ASR showed a downward trend. The disease burden and the decline degree of males were both significantly higher than that of females, and the high burden was mainly in the elderly groups. The middle SDI region possessed the highest burden with the most significant upward trend, while the high SDI region had the lowest burden with the most significant downward trend. Decomposition analyses represented that the increase in the overall deaths and DALYs of air pollution-related neoplasms was mainly driven by population growth. The predictive analyses expected that the deaths and DALYs of air pollution-related neoplasms will continue to rise, while their corresponding ASR will decrease by 2050.

CONCLUSION

The global burden of air pollution-related neoplasms remained high, and deaths and DALYs will be on upward trends up to 2050, with differences among genders, ages, SDI levels, GBD regions, and countries. It is essential to understand the air pollution-related neoplasm burden and contributing epidemiological factors for implementing effective and factor-tailored interventions to reduce the global burden.

Trends and research foci in immunoregulatory mechanisms of allergic rhinitis: a bibliometric analysis (2014-2024)

Background

This study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research trends, hotspots, and future directions in the immunoregulatory mechanisms of allergic rhinitis (AR) from 2014 to 2024.

Methods

Data were sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), covering articles and reviews published between April 1, 2014, and March 31, 2024. The search terms included "Allergic Rhinitis," "AR," and related terms along with specific keywords related to immune cells and inflammatory mediators. Bibliometric tools such as CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and SCImago Graphica were used to analyze institutional cooperation networks, keyword co-occurrence, citation bursts, and research topic evolution. Microsoft Excel 2019 was employed to display annual publication trends.

Results

A total of 2200 papers met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The number of publications showed an upward trend over the past decade, with a significant peak in 2021. China (583 papers) and the United States (454 papers) were the major contributing countries. Imperial College London emerged as the leading institution. Key research frontiers identified include the roles of NF kappa B and air pollution in AR. Keyword burst analysis revealed emerging topics such as respiratory allergy and personalized treatment strategies. Notable limitations include the exclusive use of the WoSCC database and the restriction to English-language publications.

Conclusion

The field of immunoregulatory mechanisms in allergic rhinitis has seen significant growth, with China and the United States leading the research. Future research should focus on developing personalized treatment plans and understanding the comprehensive impact of environmental factors. Continued interdisciplinary collaboration and international cooperation will be essential for advancing therapeutic strategies in AR.

Are we going towards an effective integration of air quality and climate planning? A comparative analysis for Italian regions

Climate change mitigation and adaptation along with air pollution are key challenges that require a comprehensive planning approach able to promote win-win strategies and avoid transferring environmental pressures from one sector to another. The joint approach is widely advocated at the policy level while the scientific research investigates the role of co-benefits in planning processes. A methodological framework was developed with the twofold aim of (i) assessing the current integration degree between regional Air Quality Plans and Climate Plans and (ii) providing useful hints for pursuing greater air-climate integration. Its application to the Italian case study provides useful policy implications for strengthening the role of co-benefits as drivers of planning processes. Results show that a greater air-climate integration can be achieved by enhancing the role of regional authorities in supporting the implementation of local-scale plans and actions. This is especially important in contexts where an integrated planning framework is lacking and the mainstreaming within sectoral sub-regional plans turns out to be crucial.

Astragalus membranaceus, Nigella sativa, and Perilla frutescens as Immunomodulators-Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Effectiveness in Allergic Diseases

Plants are the source of numerous remedies in modern medicine, and some of them have been studied due to their potential immunomodulatory activity. Astragalus membranaceus Fisch. ex Bunge (A. membranaceus), Nigella sativa L. (N. sativa), and Perilla frutescens (L.) Britton (P. frutescens) are plant species used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases. Their potential to act as immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic agents makes them interesting for investigating their clinical potential in alleviating the symptoms of allergic diseases. Allergy affects a large number of people; according to some sources more than 30% of the world population suffer from some type of allergic reaction, with pollen allergy as the most common type. Treatment is usually pharmacological and may not be completely effective or have side effects. Thus, we are seeking traditional medicine, mostly medicinal plants, with promising potential for alleviating allergy symptoms. A literature overview was conducted employing databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Springer, and Google Scholar. This manuscript summarizes recent in vivo preclinical and clinical studies on three species with immunomodulatory activity, provides a comparison of their anti-allergic effects, and underlines the potential of their application in clinical practice. The obtained results confirmed their efficacy in the in vivo and clinical studies, but also emphasize the problem of phytochemical characterization of the species and difference between tested doses. More clinical trials with standardized protocols (defined active molecules, dosage, side effects) are required to obtain safe and effective herbal drugs.

Lifestyle Changes and Industrialization in the Development of Allergic Diseases

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Modernization and Westernization in industrialized and developing nations is associated with a substantial increase in chronic noncommunicable diseases. This transformation has far-reaching effects on lifestyles, impacting areas such as economics, politics, social life, and culture, all of which, in turn, have diverse influences on public health. Loss of contact with nature, alternations in the microbiota, processed food consumption, exposure to environmental pollutants including chemicals, increased stress and decreased physical activity jointly result in increases in the frequency of inflammatory disorders including allergies and many autoimmune and neuropsychiatric diseases. This review aims to investigate the relationship between Western lifestyle and inflammatory disorders.

RECENT FINDINGS

Several hypotheses have been put forth trying to explain the observed increases in these diseases, such as 'Hygiene Hypothesis', 'Old Friends', and 'Biodiversity and Dysbiosis'. The recently introduced 'Epithelial Barrier Theory' incorporates these former hypotheses and suggests that toxic substances in cleaning agents, laundry and dishwasher detergents, shampoos, toothpastes, as well as microplastic, packaged food and air pollution damage the epithelium of our skin, lungs and gastrointestinal system. Epithelial barrier disruption leads to decreased biodiversity of the microbiome and the development of opportunistic pathogen colonization, which upon interaction with the immune system, initiates local and systemic inflammation. Gaining a deeper comprehension of the interplay between the environment, microbiome and the immune system provides the data to assist with legally regulating the usage of toxic substances, to enable nontoxic alternatives and to mitigate these environmental challenges essential for fostering a harmonious and healthy global environment.

The impact of increasing ambient temperature on allergic rhinitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

INTRODUCTION

Global warming appears to initiate and aggravate allergic respiratory conditions via interaction with numerous environmental factors. Temperature, commonly identified as a factor in climate change, is important in this process. Allergic rhinitis, a common respiratory allergy, is on the rise and affects approximately 500 million individuals worldwide. The increasing ambient temperature requires evaluation regarding its influence on allergic rhinitis, taking into account regional climate zones.

METHODS

A detailed search of PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and CINAHL Plus databases, was conducted, encompassing observational studies published from 1991 to 2023. Original studies examining the relationship between increasing temperature and allergic rhinitis were assessed for eligibility followed by a risk of bias assessment. Random effects meta-analysis was utilized to measure the association between a 1 °C increase in temperature and allergic rhinitis-related outcomes.

RESULTS

20 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis, with nine of them subsequently selected for the quantitative synthesis. 20 included studies were rated as Level 4 evidence according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, and the majority of these reported good-quality evidence based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Rating Scale. Using the Risk of Bias In Non-Randomized Studies of Exposure tool, the majority of studies exhibit a high risk of bias. Every 1 °C increase in temperature significantly raised the risk of allergic rhinitis-related outcomes by 29 % (RR = 1.26, 95 % CI: 1.11 to 1.50). Conversely, every 1 °C rise in temperature showed no significant increase in the odds of allergic rhinitis-related outcomes by 7 % (OR = 1.07, 95 % CI: 0.95 to 1.21). Subsequent subgroup analysis identified climate zone as an influential factor influencing this association.

CONCLUSION

It is inconclusive to definitively suggest a harmful effect of increasing temperature exposure on allergic rhinitis, due overall very low certainty of evidence. Further original research with better methodological quality is required.

Climate-sensitive health counselling in Germany: a cross-sectional study about previous participation and preferences in the general public

BACKGROUND

In response to climate change (CC), medicine needs to consider new aspects in health counselling of patients. Such climate-sensitive health counselling (CSHC) may include counselling patients on preventing and coping with climate-sensitive diseases or on leading healthy and climate-friendly lifestyles. This study aimed to identify previous participation in and preferences for CSHC as well as associated sociodemographic and attitudinal factors among the general public in Germany.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study in a population-based online panel in five German federal states (04-06/2022). We performed descriptive statistics and multivariable regression analysis to assess prior participation in CSHC and content preferences regarding CSHC, as well as associations between sociodemographic variables and general preference for CSHC.

RESULTS

Among 1491 participants (response rate 47.1%), 8.7% explicitly reported having participated in CSHC, while 39.9% had discussed at least one CSHC-related topic with physicians. In the studied sample, 46.7% of participants would like CSHC to be part of the consultation with their physician, while 33.9% rejected this idea. Participants aged 21 to 40 years (versus 51 to 60), individuals alarmed about CC (versus concerned/cautious/disengaged/doubtful/dismissive), and those politically oriented to the left (vs. centre or right) showed greater preference for CSHC in the multivariable regression model. Most participants wanted to talk about links to their personal health (65.1%) as opposed to links to the health of all people (33.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Almost half of the participants in this sample would like to receive CSHC, especially those who are younger, more alarmed about CC and more politically oriented to the left. More research and training on patient-centred implementation of CSHC is needed.

Air pollution and rhinitis

Rhinitis arises from either allergic or non-allergic inflammation of the nasal mucosa, characterized by the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the tissue and nasal secretions, along with structural alterations in the nasal mucosa. The pathways through which air pollution affects rhinitis may diverge from those affecting asthma. This article aims to review the effects of diverse air pollutants on the nose, the correlation of climate change and pollution, and how they aggravate the symptoms of patients with rhinitis.

Climate change and its impact on asthma

ABSTRACT

Earth's climate is changing at an unprecedented pace, primarily due to anthropogenic causes including greenhouse gas emissions. Evidence shows a strong link between climate change and its effects on asthma. Healthcare professionals must be educated to advocate for and lead effective strategies to reduce the health risks of climate change.

Differences in the Course, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Food Allergies Depending on Age-Comparison of Children and Adults

Food allergy (FA) has become a common global public health issue, with a growing prevalence in the modern world and a significant impact on the lives of patients, their families, and caregivers. It affects every area of life and is associated with elevated costs. Food allergy is an adverse immune reaction that occurs in response to a given food. The symptoms vary from mild to severe and can lead to anaphylaxis. This is why it is important to focus on the factors influencing the occurrence of food allergies, specific diagnostic methods, effective therapies, and especially prevention. Recently, many guidelines have emphasized the impact of introducing specific foods into a child's diet at an early age in order to prevent food allergies. Childhood allergies vary with age. In infants, the most common allergy is to cow's milk. Later in life, peanut allergy is more frequently diagnosed. Numerous common childhood allergies can be outgrown by adulthood. Adults can also develop new IgE-mediated FA. The gold standard for diagnosis is the oral provocation test. Skin prick tests, specific IgE measurements, and component-resolved diagnostic techniques are helpful in the diagnosis. Multiple different approaches are being tried as possible treatments, such as immunotherapy or monoclonal antibodies. This article focuses on the prevention and quality of life of allergic patients. This article aims to systematize the latest knowledge and highlight the differences between food allergies in pediatric and adult populations.

Impact of climate change on paediatric respiratory health: pollutants and aeroallergens

Paediatric populations are particularly vulnerable to respiratory diseases caused and exacerbated by aeroallergens, pollutants and infectious agents. Worsening climate change is expected to increase the prevalence of pollutants and aeroallergens while amplifying disease severity and causing disproportionate effects in under-resourced areas. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarise the role of anthropogenic climate change in the literature examining the future impact of aeroallergens, pollutants and infectious agents on paediatric respiratory diseases with a focus on equitable disease mitigation. The aeroallergens selected for discussion include pollen, dust mites and mould as these are prevalent triggers of paediatric asthma worldwide. Human rhinovirus and respiratory syncytial virus are key viruses interacting with climate change and pollution and are primary causal agents of viral respiratory disease. Within this review, we present the propensity for aeroallergens, climate change and pollution to synergistically exacerbate paediatric respiratory disease and outline measures that can ameliorate the expected increase in morbidity and severity of disease through a health equity lens. We support shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy worldwide, across sectors, as a primary means of reducing increases in morbidity.

Different Impacts of Traffic-Related Air Pollution on Early-Onset and Late-Onset Asthma

Background

Early-onset asthma (EOA) and late-onset asthma (LOA) are two distinct phenotypes. Air pollution has been associated with an increase in poorer asthma outcomes. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) on asthma outcomes in EOA and LOA patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 675 asthma patients (LOA: 415) recruited from a major medical center in Taiwan. The land-use regression (LUR) model was used to estimate the level of exposure to PM10, PM2.5, NO2, and O3 on an individual level. We investigated the association between TRAP and asthma outcomes in EOA and LOA patients, stratified by allergic sensitization status, using a regression approach.

Results

An increase in PM10 was associated with younger age of onset, increased asthma duration, and decreased lung function in EOA patients (p<0.05). An increase in PM10 was associated with older age of onset, and decreased asthma duration, eosinophil count, and Asthma Control Test (ACT) score in LOA patients. An increase in PM2.5 was associated with younger age of onset, increased asthma duration, decreased eosinophil count, and lung function in EOA patients (p<0.05). An increase in PM2.5 was associated with decreased lung function and ACT score in LOA patients. An increase in NO2 was associated with increased eosinophil count and decreased lung function in EOA patients (p<0.05). An increase in O3 was associated with decreased lung function in LOA patients (p<0.05). In addition, associations of TRAP with age of onset and eosinophil counts were mainly observed in both EOA and LOA patients with allergic sensitization, and an association with ACT was mainly observed in LOA patients without allergic sensitization.

Conclusion

The impact of TRAP on age of onset, eosinophil count, and lung function in EOA patients, and ACT in LOA patients, was affected by the status of allergic sensitization.

"Air That Once Was Breath" Part 1: Wildfire-Smoke-Induced Mechanisms of Airway Inflammation - "Climate Change, Allergy and Immunology" Special IAAI Article Collection: Collegium Internationale Allergologicum Update 2023

BACKGROUND

Wildfires are a global concern due to their wide-ranging environmental, economic, and public health impacts. Climate change contributes to an increase in the frequency and intensity of wildfires making smoke exposure a more significant and recurring health concern for individuals with airway diseases. Some of the most prominent effects of wildfire smoke exposure are asthma exacerbations and allergic airway sensitization. Likely due to the delayed recognition of its health impacts in comparison with cigarette smoke and industrial or traffic-related air pollution, research on the composition, the mechanisms of toxicity, and the cellular/molecular pathways involved is poor or non-existent.

SUMMARY

This review discusses potential underlying pathological mechanisms of wildfire-smoke-related allergic airway disease and asthma. We focused on major gaps in understanding the role of wildfire smoke composition in the development of airway disease and the known and potential mechanisms involving cellular and molecular players of oxidative injury at the epithelial barrier in airway inflammation. We examine how PM2.5, VOCs, O3, endotoxin, microbes, and toxic gases may affect oxidative stress and inflammation in the respiratory mucosal barrier. We discuss the role of AhR in mediating smoke's effects in alarmin release and IL-17A production and how glucocorticoid responsiveness may be impaired by IL-17A-induced signaling and epigenetic changes leading to steroid-resistant severe airway inflammation.

KEY MESSAGE

Effective mitigation of wildfire-smoke-related respiratory health effects would require comprehensive research efforts aimed at a better understanding of the immune regulatory effects of wildfire smoke in respiratory health and disease.

Phl p 5 levels more strongly associated than grass pollen counts with allergic respiratory health

BACKGROUND

Studies have linked daily pollen counts to respiratory allergic health outcomes, but few have considered allergen levels.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to assess associations of grass pollen counts and grass allergen levels (Phl p 5) with respiratory allergic health symptoms in a panel of 93 adults with moderate-severe allergic rhinitis and daily asthma hospital admissions in London, United Kingdom.

METHODS

Daily symptom and medication scores were collected from adult participants in an allergy clinical trial. Daily counts of asthma hospital admissions in the London general population were obtained from Hospital Episode Statistics data. Daily grass pollen counts were measured using a volumetric air sampler, and novel Phl p 5 levels were measured using a ChemVol High Volume Cascade Impactor and ELISA analyses (May through August). Associations between the 2 pollen variables and daily health scores (dichotomized based on within-person 75th percentiles) were assessed using generalized estimating equation logistic models and with asthma hospital admissions using Poisson regression models.

RESULTS

Daily pollen counts and Phl p 5 levels were each positively associated with reporting a high combined symptom and medication health score in separate models. However, in mutually adjusted models including terms for both pollen counts and Phl p 5 levels, associations remained for Phl p 5 levels (odds ratio [95% CI]: 1.18 [1.12, 1.24]), but were heavily attenuated for pollen counts (odds ratio [95% CI]: 1.00 [0.93, 1.07]). Similar trends were not observed for asthma hospital admissions in London.

CONCLUSIONS

Grass allergen (Phl p 5) levels are more consistently associated with allergic respiratory symptoms than grass pollen counts.

Comparison of the therapeutic effects of medication therapy, specific immunotherapy and anti-IgE (Omalizumab) in patients with hay fever

Background

Hay fever, characterized by seasonal allergic reactions, poses a significant health challenge. Existing therapies encompass standard drug regimens, biological agents, and specific immunotherapy. This study aims to assess and compare the effectiveness of anti-IgE (omalizumab), medication therapy, and subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) for hay fever.

Methods

Conducted as a retrospective cohort study, this research involved 98 outpatient hay fever patients who underwent routine medication, omalizumab treatment, or SCIT before the onset of the spring pollen season. A follow-up was performed one month after the start of the pollen season. The comprehensive symptoms and drug scores were used to evaluate patients with different intervention methods, facilitating a comparative analysis of therapeutic outcomes.

Results

Compared with before treatment, the symptoms of patients treated with the three methods were all significantly relieved, and the medication score were significantly reduced. Patients treated with omalizumab demonstrated higher symptoms and medication scores than SCIT group before treatment, but similar scores after treatment, which were both lower than medicine treatment group. After treatment with omalizumab or SCIT, patients in both groups had significantly lower medication scores than the medication group and were close to no longer using medication for symptom relief. The mountain juniper-sIgE was significantly higher after treatment than before treatment in both medicine treatment group and omalizumab treatment group.

Conclusion

Omalizumab and SCIT offer superior effects than medication therapy in hay fever patients.

Extreme Weather Events and Asthma

The objective of this article is to review recent literature on the implications of extreme weather events such as thunderstorms, wildfires, tropical cyclones, freshwater flooding, and temperature extremes in relationship to asthma symptoms. Several studies have shown worsening of asthma symptoms with thunderstorms, wildfires, tropical cyclones, freshwater flooding, and temperature extremes. In particular, thunderstorm asthma can be exacerbated by certain factors such as temperature, precipitation, and allergen sensitization. Therefore, it is imperative that the allergy and immunology community be aware of the health effects associated with these extreme weather events in order to educate patients and engage in mitigation strategies.

Different airborne particulates trigger distinct immune pathways leading to peanut allergy in a mouse model

BACKGROUND

Environmental exposure to peanut through non-oral routes is a risk factor for peanut allergy. Early-life exposure to air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), is associated with sensitization to foods through unknown mechanisms. We investigated whether PM promotes sensitization to environmental peanut and the development of peanut allergy in a mouse model.

METHODS

C57BL/6J mice were co-exposed to peanut and either urban particulate matter (UPM) or diesel exhaust particles (DEP) via the airways and assessed for peanut sensitization and development of anaphylaxis following peanut challenge. Peanut-specific CD4+ T helper (Th) cell responses were characterized by flow cytometry and Th cytokine production. Mice lacking select innate immune signaling genes were used to study mechanisms of PM-induced peanut allergy.

RESULTS

Airway co-exposure to peanut and either UPM- or DEP-induced systemic sensitization to peanut and anaphylaxis following peanut challenge. Exposure to UPM or DEP triggered activation and migration of lung dendritic cells to draining lymph nodes and induction of peanut-specific CD4+ Th cells. UPM- and DEP-induced distinct Th responses, but both stimulated expansion of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells essential for peanut allergy development. MyD88 signaling was critical for UPM- and DEP-induced peanut allergy, whereas TLR4 signaling was dispensable. DEP-induced peanut allergy and Tfh-cell differentiation depended on IL-1 but not IL-33 signaling, whereas neither cytokine alone was necessary for UPM-mediated sensitization.

CONCLUSION

Environmental co-exposure to peanut and PM induces peanut-specific Tfh cells and peanut allergy in mice.

Respiratory Health Effects of Air Pollutants

Air pollution is a risk factor for asthma and respiratory infection. Avoidance of air pollution is the best approach to mitigating the impacts of pollution. Personal preventive strategies are possible, but policy interventions are the most effective ways to prevent pollution and its effect on asthma and respiratory infection.

Association between environmental mercury exposure and allergic disorders in Korean children: Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycles 3-4 (2015-2020)

Although previous studies have suggested potential adverse effects of mercury on a child's immune system, the associations have been inconsistent. We aimed to determine the association between urinary mercury levels and allergic diseases in Korean children with high mercury exposure. Data from 853 and 710 children aged 6-11 years in the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) cycle 3 (2015-2017) and cycle 4 (2018-2020) were analyzed. We examined the association between mercury exposure and the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD), asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR), and allergic multimorbidity. After adjusting for all covariates, the urinary mercury level was positively associated with AD in the 2015-2017 study (OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.79) and AR in 2018-2020 study (OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.01, 2.10). Pooled effects showed OR of 1.34 (95% CI = 1.01, 1.79) for AD and 1.47 (95% CI = 1.01, 2.12) for allergic multimorbidity. The association with allergic multimorbidity was greater in boys (OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.01, 3.49) than in girls (OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 0.73, 2.14). These results suggest that environmental mercury exposure may exacerbate symptoms of atopic dermatitis and allergic multimorbidity in children.

Modulation of the Immune Response to Allergies Using Alternative Functional Foods

Modulation of the allergic immune response through alternative therapies is a field of study that aims to address allergic reactions differently from traditional approaches. These therapies encompass the utilization of natural functional foods, which have been observed to exert an influence on the immune response, thus mitigating the severity of allergies. Indeed, some studies suggest that the incorporation of these nutraceuticals can regulate immune function, leading to a reduction in histamine release and subsequent alleviation of allergic symptoms. Moreover, certain herbs and dietary supplements, such as curcumin, are believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may serve to moderate allergic responses. Although the results remain somewhat mixed and require further research, these alternative therapies exhibit the potential to impact the allergic immune response, thereby providing complementary options to conventional treatments. Therefore, in this review, we aim to provide an updated account of functional foods capable of modulating the immune response to allergies. In that sense, the review delves into functional foods sourced from plants (phytochemicals), animals, and marine algae. Emphasis is placed on their potential application in the treatment of allergic disorders. It also provides an overview of how these foods can be effectively utilized as functional foods. Additionally, it explores the molecular mechanisms and scientific validity of various bioactive natural compounds in the management of allergies.

Understanding the connections between climate change, air pollution, and human health in Africa: Insights from a literature review

Climate change and air pollution are two interconnected global challenges that have profound impacts on human health. In Africa, a continent known for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, the adverse effects of climate change and air pollution are particularly concerning. This review study examines the implications of air pollution and climate change for human health and well-being in Africa. It explores the intersection of these two factors and their impact on various health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory disorders, mental health, and vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. The study highlights the disproportionate effects of air pollution on vulnerable groups and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and policies to protect their health. Furthermore, it discusses the role of climate change in exacerbating air pollution and the potential long-term consequences for public health in Africa. The review also addresses the importance of considering temperature and precipitation changes as modifiers of the health effects of air pollution. By synthesizing existing research, this study aims to shed light on complex relationships and highlight the key findings, knowledge gaps, and potential solutions for mitigating the impacts of climate change and air pollution on human health in the region. The insights gained from this review can inform evidence-based policies and interventions to mitigate the adverse effects on human health and promote sustainable development in Africa.

Physical influences on the skin barrier and pathogenesis of allergy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

As the incidence of allergic conditions has increased in recent decades, the effects of climate change have been implicated. There is also increased knowledge on the effects of other physical influences, such as scratching and Staphylococcus aureus . The skin barrier is the first line of defense to the external environment, so understanding the ways that these factors influence skin barrier dysfunction is important.

RECENT FINDINGS

Although the impact on environmental exposures has been well studied in asthma and other allergic disorders, there is now more literature on the effects of temperature, air pollution, and detergents on the skin barrier. Factors that cause skin barrier dysfunction include extreme temperatures, air pollution (including greenhouse gases and particulate matter), wildfire smoke, pollen, scratching, S. aureus, and detergents.

SUMMARY

Understanding the ways that external insults affect the skin barrier is important to further understand the mechanisms in order to inform the medical community on treatment and prevention measures for atopic conditions.

The impact of temperature on the skin barrier and atopic dermatitis

Climate change is a global threat to public health and causes or worsens various diseases including atopic dermatitis (AD), allergic, infectious, cardiovascular diseases, physical injuries, and mental disorders. The incidence of allergy, such as AD, has increased over the past several decades, and environmental factors such as climate change have been implicated as a potential mechanism. A substantial amount of literature has been published on the impact of climate factors, including cold and hot temperatures, on the skin barrier and AD. Studies in several countries have found a greater incidence of AD in children born in the colder seasons of fall and winter. The effect of cold and warm temperatures on itch, skin flares, increased outpatient visits, skin barrier dysfunction, development of AD, and asthma exacerbations have been reported. Understanding mechanisms by which changes in temperature influence allergies is critical to the development of measures for the prevention and treatment of allergic disorders, such as AD and asthma. Low and high temperatures induce the production of proinflammatory cytokines and lipid mediators such as interleukin-1β, thymic stromal lymphopoietin, and prostaglandin E2, and cause itch and flares by activation of TRPVs such as TRPV1, TRPV3, and TRPV4. TRPV antagonists may attenuate temperature-mediated itch, skin barrier dysfunction, and exacerbation of AD.

Cradle-to-Grave Emission Reduction for Easyhaler Dry Powder Inhaler Product Portfolio

INTRODUCTION

There is increasing pressure to prefer propellant-free inhaler devices over pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDI) due to environmental considerations. In this work, we present results from three life cycle assessments (LCAs) on Easyhaler dry powder inhaler product portfolio and assess the changes in environmental impact and carbon footprint (CF) of the products over time.

METHODS

Three cradle-to-grave LCAs were conducted in 2019, 2021, and 2023. The 2019 assessment covered four products while 2021 and 2023 assessments included all six products in the portfolio. LCA for the protective cover sometimes used with Easyhaler was conducted in 2023. In addition to CF, nine other environmental impact categories were assessed to ensure that no burden shifting occurs.

RESULTS

During the study period, the non-weighted average CF of the Easyhaler decreased by 11.2%. For individual products, the decrease varied from 5.0 to 6.8% between the assessments. In the latest assessment, the average CF of Easyhaler was 547 gCO2e with a range of 452-617 gCO2e. The LCA of the protective cover was assessed for the first time in 2023 and had a CF of 66 gCO2e.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that the climate impact of pharmaceutical products can be reduced without making changes to the product itself. The CF of Easyhaler products is in agreement with the lower end of the CF range previously reported for dry powder inhalers. Climate impact from the protective cover was one-tenth compared to the climate impact from the product itself.

Global warming and implications for epithelial barrier disruption and respiratory and dermatologic allergic diseases

Global warming has direct and indirect effects, as well as short- and long-term impacts on the respiratory and skin barriers. Extreme temperature directly affects the airway epithelial barrier by disrupting the structural proteins and by triggering airway inflammation and hyperreactivity. It enhances tidal volume and respiratory rate by affecting the thermoregulatory system, causing specific airway resistance and reflex bronchoconstriction via activation of bronchopulmonary vagal C fibers and upregulation of transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) 1 and TRPV4. Heat shock proteins are activated under heat stress and contribute to both epithelial barrier dysfunction and airway inflammation. Accordingly, the frequency and severity of allergic rhinitis and asthma have been increasing. Heat activates TRPV3 in keratinocytes, causing the secretion of inflammatory mediators and eventually pruritus. Exposure to air pollutants alters the expression of genes that control skin barrier integrity and triggers an immune response, increasing the incidence and prevalence of atopic dermatitis. There is evidence that extreme temperature, heavy rains and floods, air pollution, and wildfires increase atopic dermatitis flares. In this narrative review, focused on the last 3 years of literature, we explore the effects of global warming on respiratory and skin barrier and their clinical consequences.

Climate change and epigenetic biomarkers in allergic and airway diseases

Human epigenetic variation is associated with both environmental exposures and allergic diseases and can potentially serve as a biomarker connecting climate change with allergy and airway diseases. In this narrative review, we summarize recent human epigenetic studies examining exposure to temperature, precipitation, extreme weather events, and malnutrition to discuss findings as they relate to allergic and airway diseases. Temperature has been the most widely studied exposure, with the studies implicating both short-term and long-term exposures with epigenetic alterations and epigenetic aging. Few studies have examined natural disasters or extreme weather events. The studies available have reported differential DNA methylation of multiple genes and pathways, some of which were previously associated with asthma or allergy. Few studies have integrated climate-related events, epigenetic biomarkers, and allergic disease together. Prospective longitudinal studies are needed along with the collection of target tissues beyond blood samples, such as nasal and skin cells. Finally, global collaboration to increase diverse representation of study participants, particularly those most affected by climate injustice, as well as strengthen replication, validation, and harmonization of measurements will be needed to elucidate the impacts of climate change on the human epigenome.

Intestinal factors promoting the development of RORγt+ cells and oral tolerance

The gastrointestinal tract has to harmonize the two seemingly opposite functions of fulfilling nutritional needs and avoiding the entry of pathogens, toxins and agents that can cause physical damage. This balance requires a constant adjustment of absorptive and defending functions by sensing environmental changes or noxious substances and initiating adaptive or protective mechanisms against them through a complex network of receptors integrated with the central nervous system that communicate with cells of the innate and adaptive immune system. Effective homeostatic processes at barrier sites take the responsibility for oral tolerance, which protects from adverse reactions to food that cause allergic diseases. During a very specific time interval in early life, the establishment of a stable microbiota in the large intestine is sufficient to prevent pathological events in adulthood towards a much larger bacterial community and provide tolerance towards diverse food antigens encountered later in life. The beneficial effects of the microbiome are mainly exerted by innate and adaptive cells that express the transcription factor RORγt, in whose generation, mediated by different bacterial metabolites, retinoic acid signalling plays a predominant role. In addition, recent investigations indicate that food antigens also contribute, analogously to microbial-derived signals, to educating innate immune cells and instructing the development and function of RORγt+ cells in the small intestine, complementing and expanding the tolerogenic effect of the microbiome in the colon. This review addresses the mechanisms through which microbiota-produced metabolites and dietary antigens maintain intestinal homeostasis, highlighting the complementarity and redundancy between their functions.

Unraveling the link: exploring the effects of environmental change on the cardiovascular system

Climate change has a particularly detrimental effect on the cardiovascular system, which is highly vulnerable to harmful impacts. The accumulation of particulate matter (PM) and greenhouse gasses in the environment negatively impacts the cardiovascular system through several mechanisms. The burden of climate change-related diseases falls disproportionately on vulnerable populations, including the elderly, the poor, and those with pre-existing health conditions. A key component of addressing the complex interplay between climate change and cardiovascular diseases is acknowledging health disparities among vulnerable populations resulting from climate change, familiarizing themselves with strategies for adapting to changing conditions, educating patients about climate-related cardiovascular risks, and advocating for policies that promote cleaner environments and sustainable practices.

RORα overexpression reduced interleukin-33 expression and prevented mast cell degranulation and inflammation by inducing autophagy in allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Retinoid acid receptor related orphan receptor α (RORα) is a nuclear receptor that along with other bioactive factors regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and immunomodulation in vivo.

AIMS

The objective of this study was to explore the function and mechanism of RORα in allergic rhinitis (AR).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Derp1 was used to construct an AR cell model in HNEpC cells, and RORα was overexpressed or silenced in the AR HNEpC cells. Next, LAD2 cells were co-cultured with the Derp1-treated HNEpC cells. Additionally, an AR mouse model was established using by OVA, and a RORα Adenovirus was delivered by nebulizing. Pathological tissue structures were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin staining, and the levels of RORα, interleukin-33 (IL-33), and other proteins were analyzed immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining. IL-33, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 levels were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits and cell migration was assessed by Transwell assays.

RESULTS

Our data showed that RORα was downregulated in the nasal mucosa tissues of AR patients. Derp1 treatment could cause a downregulation of RORα, upregulation of IL-33, the induction of NLRP3 inflammasomes, and cell migration in HNEpC cells. Furthermore, RORα overexpression dramatically attenuated IL-33 levels, NLRP3 inflammasome activity, and the migration of AR HNEpC cells induced with Derp1. Moreover, RORα in AR HNEpC cells could prevent mast cell (MC) degranulation and inflammation by accelerating autophagy, RORα overexpression inhibited MC degranulation and NLRP3-induced inflammation in the AR model mice. RORα overexpression reduced IL-33 expression in nasal epithelial cells, and also suppressed MC degranulation and inflammation by promoting autophagy.

CONCLUSION

RORα inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome in HNEpC, and attenuated mast cells degranulation and inflammation through autophagy in AR.

Reductions in inhaler greenhouse gas emissions by addressing care gaps in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: an analysis

INTRODUCTION

Climate change from greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions represents one of the greatest public health threats of our time. Inhalers (and particularly metred-dose inhalers (MDIs)) used for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), constitute an important source of GHGs. In this analysis, we aimed to estimate the carbon footprint impact of improving three distinct aspects of respiratory care that drive avoidable inhaler use in Canada.

METHODS

We used published data to estimate the prevalence of misdiagnosed disease, existing inhaler use patterns, medication class distributions, inhaler type distributions and GHGs associated with inhaler actuations, to quantify annual GHG emissions in Canada: (1) attributable to asthma and COPD misdiagnosis; (2) attributable to overuse of rescue inhalers due to suboptimally controlled symptoms; and (3) avoidable by switching 25% of patients with existing asthma and COPD to an otherwise comparable therapeutic option with a lower GHG footprint.

RESULTS

We identified the following avoidable annual GHG emissions: (1) ~49 100 GHG metric tons (MTs) due to misdiagnosed disease; (2) ~143 000 GHG MTs due to suboptimal symptom control; and (3) ~262 100 GHG MTs due to preferential prescription of strategies featuring MDIs over lower-GHG-emitting options (when 25% of patients are switched to lower GHG alternatives). Combined, the GHG emission reductions from bridging these gaps would be the equivalent to taking ~101 100 vehicles off the roads each year.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis shows that the carbon savings from addressing misdiagnosis and suboptimal disease control are comparable to those achievable by switching one in four patients to lower GHG-emitting therapeutic strategies. Behaviour change strategies required to achieve and sustain delivery of evidence-based real-world care are complex, but the added identified incentive of carbon footprint reduction may in itself prove to be a powerful motivator for change among providers and patients. This additional benefit can be leveraged in future behaviour change interventions.

Impact of Global Climate Change on Pulmonary Health: Susceptible and Vulnerable Populations

As fossil fuel combustion continues to power the global economy, the rate of climate change is accelerating, causing severe respiratory health impacts and large disparities in the degree of human suffering. Hotter and drier climates lead to longer and more severe wildland fire seasons, impairing air quality around the globe. Hotter temperatures lead to higher amounts of ozone and particles, causing the exacerbation of chronic respiratory diseases and premature mortality. Longer pollen seasons and higher pollen concentrations provoke allergic airway diseases. In arid regions, accelerated land degradation and desertification are promoting dust pollution and impairing food production and nutritional content that are essential to respiratory health. Extreme weather events and flooding impede healthcare delivery and can lead to poor indoor air quality due to mold overgrowth. Climate and human activities that harm the environment and ecosystem may also affect the emergence and spread of viral infections, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and associated morbidity and mortality exacerbated by air pollution. Children and elderly individuals are more susceptible to the adverse health effects of climate change. Geographical and socioeconomic circumstances, together with a decreased capacity to adapt, collectively increase vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change. Successful mitigation of anthropogenic climate change is dependent on the commitment of energy-intensive nations to manage greenhouse gas emissions, as well as societal support and response to aggravating factors. In this review, we focus on the respiratory health impacts of global climate change, with an emphasis on susceptible and vulnerable populations and low- and middle-income countries.

TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of contact lenses on the ocular surface

Several lifestyle choices made by contact lens wearers can have adverse consequences on ocular health. These include being non-adherent to contact lens care, sleeping in lenses, ill-advised purchasing options, not seeing an eyecare professional for regular aftercare visits, wearing lenses when feeling unwell, wearing lenses too soon after various forms of ophthalmic surgery, and wearing lenses when engaged in risky behaviors (e.g., when using tobacco, alcohol or recreational drugs). Those with a pre-existing compromised ocular surface may find that contact lens wear exacerbates ocular disease morbidity. Conversely, contact lenses may have various therapeutic benefits. The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impinged upon the lifestyle of contact lens wearers, introducing challenges such as mask-associated dry eye, contact lens discomfort with increased use of digital devices, inadvertent exposure to hand sanitizers, and reduced use of lenses. Wearing contact lenses in challenging environments, such as in the presence of dust and noxious chemicals, or where there is the possibility of ocular trauma (e.g., sport or working with tools) can be problematic, although in some instances lenses can be protective. Contact lenses can be worn for sport, theatre, at high altitude, driving at night, in the military and in space, and special considerations are required when prescribing in such situations to ensure successful outcomes. A systematic review and meta-analysis, incorporated within the review, identified that the influence of lifestyle factors on soft contact lens dropout remains poorly understood, and is an area in need of further research. Overall, this report investigated lifestyle-related choices made by clinicians and contact lens wearers and discovered that when appropriate lifestyle choices are made, contact lens wear can enhance the quality of life of wearers.

Prebirth effects of climate change on children's respiratory health

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To date, there is no evidence that humanity will implement appropriate mitigation measures to avoid the catastrophic impact of climate change on the planet and human health. Vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children will be the most affected. This review highlights epidemiologic data on climate change-related prenatal environmental exposures affecting the fetus and children's respiratory health.

RECENT FINDINGS

Research on outcomes of prenatal exposure to climate change-related environmental changes and pediatric pulmonary health is limited. In addition to adverse pregnancy outcomes known to affect lung development, changes in lung function, increased prevalence of wheezing, atopy, and respiratory infections have been associated with prenatal exposure to increased temperatures, air pollution, and maternal stress. The mechanisms behind these changes are ill-defined, although oxidative stress, impaired placental functioning, and epigenetic modifications have been observed. However, the long-term impact of these changes remains unknown.

SUMMARY

The detrimental impact of the climate crisis on pediatric respiratory health begins before birth, highlighting the inherent vulnerability of pregnant women and children. Research and advocacy, along with mitigation and adaptation measures, must be implemented to protect pregnant women and children, the most affected but the least responsible for the climate crisis.

Climate change impacts on children's respiratory health

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review examines the impact of climate change on the respiratory health of children, with a focus on temperature, humidity, air pollution, and extreme weather events. Climate change is considered the greatest health threat of our time, and children are especially at risk. This review is timely and relevant as it provides an overview of the current literature on the effects of climate change on children's respiratory health, and the implications of these findings for clinical practice and research.

RECENT FINDINGS

The findings of this review suggest that climate change has a significant impact on children's respiratory health, with temperature, humidity, air pollution, and extreme weather events being key contributory factors. Increases in extreme weather events such as heatwaves, wildfires, floods, droughts, hurricanes and dust storms all cause the health of children's respiratory system to be at increased risk.

SUMMARY

The findings of this review suggest that climate change has a significant impact on children's respiratory health, and that mitigation and adaptation strategies are necessary to protect children from the harmful effects of climate change and improve their respiratory health. Overall, a comprehensive and integrated approach is necessary to protect children from the increasing impacts of climate change.

Environmental influences on childhood asthma: Climate change

Climate change is a key environmental factor for allergic respiratory diseases, especially in childhood. This review describes the influences of climate change on childhood asthma considering the factors acting directly, indirectly and with their amplifying interactions. Recent findings on the direct effects of temperature and weather changes, as well as the influences of climate change on air pollution, allergens, biocontaminants and their interplays, are discussed herein. The review also focusses on the impact of climate change on biodiversity loss and on migration status as a model to study environmental effects on childhood asthma onset and progression. Adaptation and mitigation strategies are urgently needed to prevent further respiratory diseases and human health damage in general, especially in younger and future generations.