Severe asthma progression has the potential to considerably elevate the danger of premature mortality. This conclusion was reached by investigators at the Karolinska Institute, following an analysis of data pertaining to over 11,000 individuals. The findings of this study are documented in the European Respiratory Journal.
The study participants were monitored for up to a two-decade span and categorized according to the severity of their condition. Over the observation period, the mortality rate among those with severe asthma reached 34%, whereas for mild to moderate cases, this figure was approximately 20%.
The paper’s authors point out that when calculated in terms of relative risks, this represents an almost twofold rise in the likelihood of dying prematurely. However, asthma itself seldom serves as the direct cause of death. The primary role, researchers emphasize, is played by coexisting conditions that arise as a consequence of chronic inflammation.
Specifically, in individuals with asthma, the concentration of cytokines—signaling molecules involved in inflammatory responses—increases within the body. An excess of these molecules can result in reduced vessel elasticity, heightened permeability of their walls, and impaired blood flow. Consequently, this elevates the risk of thromboses, which can precipitate myocardial infarction or stroke.
Furthermore, patients experiencing severe forms of the disease show a higher incidence of oncological disorders, which may ultimately determine the long-term outcome of their illness. Frequent exacerbations also contribute as an additional risk factor, imposing persistent strain on both the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
The researchers highlight that severe asthma is relatively uncommon, affecting roughly 3–8% of patients. Nonetheless, this specific cohort necessitates heightened medical vigilance, as a significant probability of systemic complications persists even when contemporary treatment modalities are employed.
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