A recent study by Dr Xu Gao and colleagues has looked at the relationship between lung function and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (which include aspirin) in 2,280 veterans. The researchers then compared this with air pollution data from the previous month in their hometown of greater Boston. Other factors, including whether or not the participant was a smoker were also taken into consideration.
The study found that NSAIDs nearly halved the effect of particulate matter (all solid and liquid particles suspended in air) on lung function. The mechanism by which this protection happens is unknown, but may be due to NSAIDS reducing inflammation in the lung caused by pollution. As most of the participants in the study were taking aspirin, this effect was deemed to be predominantly due to aspirin, but the effect of other NSAIDs would be useful to study.
These results show that aspirin may be useful in the short-term protection of lungs against air pollution. However, air pollution contributes to a number of other harmful bodily effects so it is still important to minimise overall exposure.
To check air pollution in your area, click here
References:
Share this post
Latest News posts
World Aspergillosis Day 2020
February 3, 2020
Hope on the horizon: Novel antifungal treatments in development
January 20, 2020
How can I protect myself from air pollution?
January 17, 2020
‘Smart shirt’ used to monitor lung function
December 4, 2019
Bedding, allergies and lung health
December 2, 2019
The importance of measles vaccination
November 8, 2019
Fireworks, bonfires and aspergillosis
November 6, 2019
How people with aspergillosis can help look after their liver
October 28, 2019
A step-change in computer power for aspergillosis genomics
October 24, 2019
News archive
- Antifungals in development
- COVID-19
- Events
- Fundraising
- General interest
- How do I...?
- Information and Learning
- Latest research news
- Lifestyle and Coping Skills
- Living with Aspergillosis
- NAC announcements
- News archive
- Patient and Carer Blog
- Patient stories
- Recordings
- Supplements and complementary therapies
- Types of aspergillosis
- Video