Childhood Obesity Predicts Higher Asthma Prevalence

In a recent international study published in Pediatric Pulmonology, researchers investigated the relationship between body mass index (BMI) in children and lung function. Using a random selection of over 15, 000 students, the study concluded that elevated BMI in children is associated with impaired lung function and an increased prevalence of asthma.

Extreme BMI predicts higher asthma prevalence and is associated with lung function impairment in school-aged children. Chu YT, Chen WY, Wang TN, Tseng HI, Wu JR, Ko YC. Pediatric Pulmonology 2009 May;44(5):472-9.

Low vitamin D again linked to higher mortality.

Numerous studies have shown that lower levels of vitamin D can be associated with the increased occurrences of health issues and premature mortality in the elderly. A new study published in Clinical Endocrinology (November 2009), followed the vitamin D levels of 614 men and women, average age of 70 years, over a period of 6 years. Those exhibiting the lowest blood levels of vitamin D were found to have 2-4 times the increased risk for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality. This report helps to support the need for vitamin D supplementation with regards to reducing mortality and cardiovascular risks.

To read the abstract of this study:
Pubmed Abstract