Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia
Advertisement

Exposure to Specific Outdoor Microbes may Protect Kids from Asthma

by Iswarya on August 29, 2019 at 2:27 PM
Exposure to Specific Outdoor Microbes may Protect Kids from Asthma

Large amounts of a specific type of bacteria, most likely from outdoors, may decrease the child's risk of developing asthma, reports a new study. The findings of the study are published in the Journal of Allergy & Clinical Immunology.

This was shown by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare's (THL) new study that analyzed the microbiota in over 400 Finnish homes.

Advertisement


However, the study was unable to identify individual bacterial taxa that provide protection against asthma.

It remains unclear why exposure to microbes protects against asthma. Earlier studies have found that high diversity of microbes is of particular importance in protecting against asthma.
Advertisement

THL's study, published in June, also showed that farm-like microbiota of the child's home protected children from asthma also in urban homes.

Finns spend 90% of the time indoors - contact with natural microbiota has decreased

On average, Finns spend 90% of the time indoors and more and more often in an urban environment. This means less contact with natural microbiota. The diversity of bacteria protects against asthma, but certain soil microbes protect even more effectively.

"In this study, we identified certain groups of bacteria found in soil that protect against asthma. These groups of bacteria provided more effective protection against asthma than the previously observed diversity of microbiota," says Anne Karvonen, Senior Researcher at THL.

"If we want to develop products that protect against asthma, such as microbes that you can bring home or place on the skin, it would have been helpful to identify individual asthma-protective bacteria. However, our results help to restrict the bacteria that should be studied more." Increased contact with nature is beneficial.

"We could explore nature with children more often and play in nature instead of urban playgrounds covered with rubber. With regard to microbial exposure, it is important to have contact with nature in our everyday lives," says Karvonen.

Source: Eurekalert
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Respiratory Disease News

Pneumonia Vaccine Found Effective in Macaques
A recently developed pneumococcal vaccination was proven to be successful in the trials involving macaque monkeys.
AI-aided Home Stethoscope Monitors Asthma
Using the auscultatory sounds of asthmatic kids under age five, StethoMe, an AI-based home stethoscope, was able to accurately diagnose asthma exacerbation.
Indian Doctors Urge Heightened Surveillance Amid China's Pneumonia Cases
Given the recent series of pneumonia cases in China, Indian doctors are recommending increased vigilance and enhanced hygiene practices.
Cancer Treatment Holds Hope in Combating Tuberculosis
An emerging cancer therapy demonstrates exceptional effectiveness in combating tuberculosis (TB), an immensely destructive infectious illness.
One-Third of Americans Forgo Vaccinations During Flu Season
While majority of Americans took precautions for respiratory seasonal illnesses, one-third believed they were at low risk, and didn't get flu or COVID-19 vax.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
×

Exposure to Specific Outdoor Microbes may Protect Kids from Asthma Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests