A study of more than 700 people has shown that those with long Covid have distinct differences in the mix of bacteria that live in their mouths and lungs, according to a study published in the European Respiratory Journal [1]. The research also shows that these differences in the lung microbiome are linked to respiratory […]
Category: Respiratory
Regular walking is good for people with COPD, even if they live in areas with higher air pollution
Regular walking reduces symptom flare ups for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, even if they live in an area with poor air quality, according to a study published in ERJ Open Research [1]. COPD is a common, long-term lung condition. It cannot be cured; however, plenty of research shows that regular physical activity, such […]
High-dose flu vaccine beneficial for older people with lung disease
The risk of being hospitalised for flu or pneumonia can be reduced with a high-dose flu vaccine for older people with chronic lung disease, according to the combined results of two large clinical trials presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain [1]. The research was presented by Dr Lisa Steen Duus […]
Severe asthma linked to changes in brain structure
People living with a severe form of asthma show subtle differences in the structure of their brains compared with people whose asthma is well controlled, according to new research presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain [1]. The study, led by researchers from NIHR Biomedical Research Centre: Bristol (NIHR BRC: Bristol) […]
Smoking has declined overall, but vaping has increased and people are starting to smoke at a younger age
Three large studies together show that, although the number of people who smoke is declining, people are taking up smoking at a younger age and vaping has increased, particularly among children and younger people. The research, examining trends in Austria and Ireland, is presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain. Researchers […]
Weight loss injection semaglutide can reduce asthma attacks by up to 40 per cent
The diabetes and weight loss injection semaglutide can reduce asthma attacks by up to 40 per cent according to research presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain [1]. The study was led by Dr Chloe Bloom, Clinical Associate Professor in Respiratory Epidemiology at the National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College […]
Laughter therapy can help people with COPD breathe more easily
A clinical trial for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) shows that laughter therapy can reduce breathing difficulties and is as effective as more traditional breathing exercises. The research is presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain [1]. In the trial, patients were taught how to use deliberate laughter as […]
Smoking leads to increased loneliness
Smoking is not social and leads to increased loneliness, according to a large Europe-wide study presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain [1]. The study was presented by Dr Keir Philip, Clinical Lecturer in Respiratory Medicine at the National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, UK. Dr Philip told the […]
In a third of cases, AI chatbots wrongly reassure sleep apnoea patients their symptoms aren’t serious
In a third of cases, AI chatbots wrongly reassure sleep apnoea patients that their symptoms are not serious, discouraging them from seeking a referral to a specialist, according to research presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain [1]. Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) often snore loudly, their breathing starts and […]
Bacteria in classroom dust associated with reduced lung function in children
Common bacteria found in classroom dust are associated with reduced lung function in children according to research presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain [1]. The research may show us how to make sure schools are healthy environments for children and their developing lungs. The study was presented by Dr Soutrik […]