Secondhand smoke in bars, restaurants increases asthma, cancer risk

In the first study to evaluate the health risks of exposure to secondhand smoke for patrons of restaurants and bars, researchers have found that the risks are well above the acceptable level. The study assessed the risk for lung cancer and heart disease deaths among both patrons and servers and also for asthma initiation—the first study to do so—among servers......

Read more here: medicalxpress.com



Designing a healthy home for asthma sufferers – Ashtmatics breathe easier using these simple tips to reduce indoor air pollution

Did you know that indoor levels of air pollutants could be 2-5 times higher, and occasionally 100 times higher, than outdoor levels? In fact, indoor air pollution consistently ranks among the top five environmental risks to public health according to the EPA Indoor Environments Division. Most of us tend to think of dust, pet dander, and smoke as the main culprits, however some other common, but little know indoor pollutants include Formaldehyde, Lead, Radon, Nitrogen Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide. These toxic substances and others can be found in a wide range of household items from building materials, to furniture, linens, and even cookware......

Read more here: tele-management.ca




Inflammatory on and off switch identified for allergic asthma and COPD

New research in The FASEB Journal suggests that two receptors of leukotriene B4, BLT1 and BLT2, actually play opposite roles in inflammation, suggesting new drug targets and strategies for treatment.....

Read more here: eurekalert.org