The Interplay between the Effects of Lifetime Asthma, Smoking, and Atopy on Fixed Airflow Obstruction in Middle Age

• DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201205-0788oc
• Publication Date: 2012-11-17T02:00:16Z
• Authors: Jennifer L. Perret; Shyamali C. Dharmage; Melanie C. Matheson; David P. Johns; Lyle C. Gurrin; John A. Burgess; John Marrone; James Markos; Stephen Morrison; Iain Feather; Paul S. Thomas; Christine F. McDo...; Graham G. Giles; John L. Hopper; Richard Wood-Baker; Michael J. Abramson; Eugene H. Walters
• Keywords: Atopy

Rationale: The contribution by asthma to the development of fixed airflow obstruction (AO) and nature its effect combined with active smoking atopy remain unclear.Objectives: To investigate prevalence relative influence lifetime asthma, smoking, on AO in middle age.Methods: population-based Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study cohort born 1961 (n = 8,583) studied prebronchodilator spirometry 1968 was retraced 7,312) resurveyed 5,729 responses) from 2002 2005. A sample enriched for chronic bronchitis underwent a further questionnaire, pre- post-bronchodilator 1,389), skin prick testing, lung volumes, diffusing capacity measurements. Prevalence estimates were reweighted sampling fractions. Multiple linear logistic regression used assess relevant associations.Measurements Main Results: effects interactions between as they relate measured. 6.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.5–7.5%). Its association early-onset current clinical equivalent 33 pack-year history (odds ratio, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.5–9.3; P 0.005), compared 24 late-onset 2.6; 1.03–6.5; 0.042). An interaction (multiplicative effect) present it relates ratio FEV1/FVC, but only among those atopic sensitization.Conclusions: Active both contribute substantially age, especially atopy. these factors provides another compelling reason individuals who smoke quit.