A study conducted by scientists from Sweden’s Karolinska Institute has shown that people with severe asthma are at greater risk of premature death.
The study analyzed data from more than 11,000 people with asthma, who were followed for up to 20 years. The researchers found that 34% of those with severe asthma died, compared to about 20% of those with mild to moderate asthma. On average, the risk of premature death for these patients was almost twice as high as for healthy people.
According to the researchers, the increased risk of premature death is not related to asthma attacks themselves as much as it is related to the diseases that accompany those attacks. People with severe asthma are more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases and cancer, which ultimately become the leading cause of death. Also, frequent attacks and constant stress on the body lead to a deterioration in general health.
Scientists point out that severe asthma affects a relatively small percentage of patients, ranging between 3 and 8%, but this particular group requires special attention, as the results emphasize the need for accurate diagnosis, regular follow-up, and personalized treatment, with the aim of reducing risks and improving early diagnosis.
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the airways in the lungs. It affects both children and adults. Its symptoms can include coughing, wheezing when inhaling or exhaling, shortness of breath, and chest pain. The likelihood of developing this disease increases in people who suffer from allergic conditions or who live in crowded cities with polluted air. The risk of developing asthma also increases among children and adults who are overweight or obese.
