Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, no longer dictates the quality of life for those who suffer from it. With modern medical advancements, living a normal life despite asthma attacks is not only possible but increasingly common.
However, even with these advancements, around 10% of asthmatics still struggle to control their symptoms. These individuals may show normal results in pulmonary function or breathing tests yet experience significant symptoms, often due to inflammation caused by eosinophils—a type of white blood cell linked to allergic reactions.
Traditional combination inhalers often fail to suppress this inflammation, which is why newer treatments like Nucala and Fasenra have been developed. These injectable medications specifically target eosinophils. Nucala (mepolizumab), an interleukin-5 antagonist monoclonal antibody, is particularly effective for patients with severe eosinophilic asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss syndrome), and hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES). Administered once every one or two months, these treatments focus on interleukin-5, a key driver of eosinophil activity.
Eosinophils are naturally designed to kill parasites but can cause damage to normal tissues, including lung cells, in the process. Targeting them helps reduce the inflammation that traditional inhalers cannot control. Another cutting-edge medication is Dupixent, administered every two weeks. This treatment targets interleukin-4 and interleukin-13, addressing not only asthma but also related allergic conditions like atopic dermatitis and nasal polyps. The underlying biological abnormalities of these conditions may be similar, and Nucala has recently been approved for treating nasal polyps as well.
Tezspire, a new medication, is noteworthy for its unique approach—it targets a hormone on the surface of lung tissue, addressing the direct damage caused by long-standing asthma. Tezspire works alongside existing medications to provide comprehensive treatment. Xolair, another injectable, was the first of its kind released in 2003. It targets immunoglobulin-E (IgE), the allergic antibody, improving symptoms without altering lung capacity.
These modern injectables offer hope and relief to asthma patients, but caution is essential. Patients are strongly advised against self-medication, as purchasing these medications without a prescription can be dangerous. Unfortunately, the lack of strict regulations in some countries allows the sale of even potent drugs without proper oversight. Always consult a qualified physician before starting any treatment.
Asthma and Success: A Tale of Triumph
Asthma is the most common chronic condition among elite athletes and celebrities, yet it has not held them back from achieving greatness. Celebrated actor Amitabh Bachchan, who suffers from asthma, has reached unparalleled heights in his career, demonstrating that the condition is not an insurmountable barrier. Asthma affects a significant percentage of Olympic athletes, with estimates ranging from 8.3% to 20%. A 2023 study in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports revealed that 15–20% of athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics have asthma. Similarly, a 2022 study of European athletes in the Summer Olympics found that 16.5% had asthma. Endurance athletes, such as swimmers, cyclists, rowers, cross-country skiers, and biathletes, are particularly susceptible due to the intense training that generates high airflow rates, potentially contributing to asthma development.
Despite this, many high-profile Olympic athletes, including Amy Van Dyken, Tom Dolan, and Jackie Joyner-Kersee, have triumphed over asthma, bringing home medals and setting world records.
The Impact of Air Pollution on Asthma
Air pollution significantly exacerbates asthma, and ongoing research is focused on understanding the interactions between pollution and allergens. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2020) highlights the limitations of traditional pollen counts for allergy sufferers. New technology now allows for more comprehensive data collection, leading to the development of an allergy risk concept that combines pollen and pollution information into a qualitative risk index. This index is available in the Mobile Airways Sentinel Network-Air app, developed under the European Union grant “Impact of Air Pollution on Sleep, Asthma, and Rhinitis,” a project of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology-Health.
This app, powered by information technology and artificial intelligence, transforms complex data into easy-to-use services for both medical practitioners and allergy sufferers. Pollen allergy sufferers can now identify specific allergens and take steps to avoid them, improving their health and quality of life.
Asthma, while chronic, does not have to be a life sentence. Many celebrities and athletes have conquered the condition and achieved greatness. The message is clear: Asthma sufferers should not be disheartened by myths or misinformation. With modern treatments and a positive outlook, a full and successful life is within reach.
