Childhood Asthma and Lung Function Dynamics
Summary
Childhood asthma encompasses a spectrum of airway disorders characterised by chronic inflammation, reversible airflow obstruction and bronchial hyperreactivity. The evolution of lung function during early life is critically influenced by genetic predisposition, environmental exposures and the timing of respiratory insults. Lung function typically follows a trajectory that peaks in late adolescence; deviations arising from repeated infections, allergen sensitisation or maternal and perinatal factors can lower the maximal attained volume or accelerate decline thereafter. Phenotypic variation in wheezing patterns, from transient early wheeze to persistent asthma, reflects underlying differences in airway remodelling, immune responses and structural lung development. An improved understanding of these dynamics emphasises the need for early identification of at-risk children and tailored interventions to optimise long-term respiratory health. Global studies have underscored the importance of socioeconomic context and targeted prevention of lower respiratory tract infections to mitigate chronic impairment, while advances in predictive modelling seek to refine prognostic assessments into adolescence and adulthood.
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Childhood Asthma and Lung Function Dynamics publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in childhood asthma and lung function dynamics across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1): The volume of air expelled in the first second of a forced breath, indicating airway patency.
Forced vital capacity (FVC): The total volume of air that can be forcibly exhaled after full inspiration, reflecting lung capacity.
Spirometry: A standard test measuring volumes and flow rates of air inhaled and exhaled to assess pulmonary function.
Bronchial hyperreactivity: An exaggerated constrictive response of the airways to stimuli, contributing to airflow limitation.
Lung function trajectory: The characteristic pattern of growth and decline in respiratory capacity over the lifespan.
References
- Determinants of lung function development from birth to age 5 years: an interrupted time series analysis of a South African birth cohort. The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health (2024).
- Obstructive and restrictive spirometry from school age to adulthood: three birth cohort studies. EClinicalMedicine (2023).
- Airway obstruction and bronchial reactivity from age 1 month until 13 years in children with asthma: A prospective birth cohort study. PLOS Medicine (2019).
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