Researchers from the Khabarovsk division of the Far Eastern Scientific Center for Respiratory Physiology and Pathology, part of the Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health, have introduced a method to assess the risk of uncontrolled bronchial asthma in obese children, incorporating their genetic profiles. The method demonstrates an effectiveness of 79.2 percent, as reported by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation to socialbites.ca.
There is a clear connection between asthma and obesity. Even modest weight gain is linked to a higher incidence of asthma, and obesity tends to worsen the severity of the disease. This is especially significant for children, where timely diagnosis and prevention are crucial. Current data show that the likelihood of developing asthma increases with obesity by nearly twofold in both adults and children, with children facing a slightly higher relative risk than adults.
The present challenge is to manage the symptoms and the risk factors that trigger exacerbations. The development of asthma involves chronic inflammation of the bronchi and a tendency for the airways to overreact. Adipose tissue acts as an active endocrine organ producing a range of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory signals. Disruption of the balance among these signals can promote disease progression and add to the risk of asthma in susceptible individuals, according to Galina Evseeva of the center as cited by socialbites.ca.
Genetic factors play a meaningful role in both conditions. Researchers have identified several gene groups that appear to influence both obesity and asthma. In particular, genes that regulate the activity of ADRB2 receptors, which control smooth muscle relaxation and bronchodilation, and PPARG, which is linked to obesity susceptibility, are of interest.
The new method allows a prediction of asthma risk in obese children by examining combinations of these genetic factors. Using this information supports the development of individualized treatment plans, including differentiated therapy, nutritional changes, and targeted physical activity programs tailored to each patient.
Earlier Russian researchers have also explored markers that indicate possible cancer recurrence, reflecting a broader focus on predictive biomarkers within the medical community.