A new large-scale study by Swedish scientists from the Karolinska Institute showed that in severe cases, asthma affects the entire body and can significantly shorten life - even if it does not directly become the cause of death.
An analysis of data from more than 11,000 patients, monitored for up to 20 years, revealed nearly a twofold increase in the risk of premature death among individuals with severe disease.
The mortality rate among patients with severe asthma during the observation period reached 34%, while for mild and moderate forms, this figure was about 20%. However, asthma itself rarely becomes a direct cause of death. The main danger comes from comorbidities that develop against the backdrop of chronic inflammation.
What is the reason? In asthma, the body continuously produces an excess of signaling molecules - cytokines. This process reduces the elasticity of blood vessels, increases their permeability, and disrupts normal blood flow. A favorable environment for thrombosis is created, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Additionally, patients with severe asthma are more frequently diagnosed with oncological diseases, which become a cause of death in the long term.
An additional risk factor is frequent exacerbations. They create a constant burden on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, gradually depleting their resources.
Researchers emphasize that severe asthma occurs relatively rarely - in only 3-8% of all patients. However, this group requires the most careful medical monitoring.
The results of the study are published in the European Respiratory Journal.
Scientists are convinced that severe asthma is not just a chronic respiratory disease, but a systemic problem that can eventually affect the entire body. The earlier comprehensive treatment and monitoring begin, the higher the chances of reducing risks and preserving life expectancy.
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