Recorded presentation

Binu Jacob, School of Public Health, College of Public Service, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Services Research, Jackson State University, 350 West Woodrow Wilson Drive, Suite 2301-B, Jackson, MS 39213, (601) 932 8471, binubinz@yahoo.com and Anthony R. Mawson, MA, DrPH, School of Public Health, College of Public Service, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Services Research, Jackson State University, 350 West Woodrow Wilson Avenue, Suite 2301-B, Jackson, MS 39213.

The prevalence of asthma in the United States has increased 50% in the last ten years. Currently, there are 20 million persons affected and 700,000 new cases every year. Asthma prevalence is lower in developing countries than in the developed world, and poor rural communities appear to have the lowest prevalence of asthma. These discrepancies reflect differences in the global distribution of risk and protective factors. This study examines international variations in protective and risk factors for asthma prevalence and explores the complex interplay between environmental factors and genetic determinants of asthma pathogenesis. Widespread immunization, obesity, use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, race, and maternal tobacco smoking may explain the increased prevalence of asthma in the United States and other developed countries. In many developing countries, an increased exposure to viruses, bacteria, and ectoparasites/endoparasites represent protective factors for asthma, possibly due to selective stimulation of Th1 immune mechanisms. The role of other protective factors such as use of fermented milk, anthroposophic lifestyles, farming environment, dietary patterns and sibship size await further study. These protective factors are generally rare in the developed countries and may explain global differences in asthma prevalence. The conclusions from this research will increase our understanding of the pathways leading to the development of asthma. Further knowledge of risk and protective factors for asthma and their mechanism of action can be expected to speed the development of successful preventive strategies as well as more effective treatments for asthma.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Describe international variations in asthma prevalence, e.g., between developed and developing nations.
• Recognize the known risk and protective factors for asthma and their global distribution.
• Recognize the need for research to identify the mechanisms underlying both risk and protective factors for asthma.

Keywords: Asthma, Environmental Exposures

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation