RESPTREC News

Prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease in patients with IPF

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:57:00 -0600

GERD appears to be common among patients with IPF. These findings may support greater clinical awareness and assessment of GERD in IPF patients.

Pulmonary rehabilitation is associated with increased 1-year survival in stable COPD

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:52:00 -0600

Engagement in center-based PR is associated with greater survival in stable COPD, supporting need for policies to increase funding for and access to PR.

Young Individuals With Chronic E-Cigarette Exposure Display Cardiopulmonary Abnormalities During Exercise

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:39:00 -0600

In this study, otherwise healthy young adults who report regular e-cigarette use exhibited evidence of abnormal cardiopulmonary responses to exercise and blunted Dlco recruitment. These findings suggest early cardiopulmonary impairment and pulmonary vascular dysfunction in young adults with chronic e-cigarette exposure.

Pulmonary Fungal Infections in the Immunocompetent Host

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:38:00 -0600

An organized clinical approach that integrates epidemiologic and novel risk factors with the strengths and limitations of available diagnostic testing is critical for effective diagnosis and management of pulmonary fungal infections in immunocompetent hosts.

Impact of Sex on Prediction of Asthma Attacks

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:36:00 -0600

The overall annualized asthma attack rate was higher in female than male individuals. These findings highlight that female individuals without prior attacks may face increased risk, and they have important implications for clinical research and practice.

Webinar: Strengthening Respiratory Health Through Physical Activity and Community Partnership with Rural BC First Nations

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:02:00 -0600

The CRHP are hosting a webinar on June 17 at 12:00 pm ET with Sunaina Chopra, who will present Strengthening Respiratory Health Through Physical Activity and Community Partnership with Rural BC First Nations. Register today!

Is it time to focus on expiratory muscle training in children with asthma?

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 08:36:00 -0600

Adding 8 weeks of expiratory muscle training to chest physiotherapy improved pulmonary function, respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, cough effectiveness, functional capacity, and asthma control in children with asthma. Expiratory muscle training appears to be a safe and effective adjunct to pediatric asthma management.

A core outcome set for home oxygen therapy in chronic lung disease

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 09:05:00 -0600

This core outcome set outlines the minimum specific outcomes measures to be reported for long-term oxygen therapy, ambulatory oxygen therapy, and nocturnal oxygen therapy in clinical research and practice.

Long-term exposure to air pollution and risk of adult-onset asthma and COPD

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 09:03:00 -0600

In a large Danish nationwide analysis, air pollution is an important predictor for adult-onset asthma and COPD

Article Navigation Journal Article A CAPTURE ancillary study to assess GOLD 2025 spirometry recommendations in primary care adults

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 09:01:00 -0600

Using the 2025 Global Obstructive Lung Disease recommendations in primary care patients with pre-BD spirometry showing obstruction or an FEV1 < 80% predicted resulted in few missed diagnoses of COPD or obstruction. These data confirm that nonobstructive pre-BD results may be used routinely in primary care.

Impact of Single-Inhaler Triple Therapy on Disease Stability in COPD

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 08:21:00 -0600

In this real-world cohort of exacerbating patients with COPD, once-daily single-inhaler fluticasone furoate/umeclidinium/vilanterol MEC/VI was associated with improved lung function, reduced hyperinflation, better symptom control, enhanced quality of life, and a significant reduction in exacerbation frequency.

Efficacy and safety of tezepelumab versus placebo in reducing oral corticosteroid use in adults with severe, oral corticosteroid-dependent asthma

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 09:31:00 -0600

These findings show that patients receiving tezepelumab can reduce maintenance oral corticosteroid use while maintaining asthma control and without compromising efficacy.

Expand Podcast from RESPIPLUS Season 7 Series Now Available!

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 10:33:00 -0600

RESPIPLUS has released Season 7 of the EXPAND Podcast, a special five-part COVID-19 series featuring Mike and Amy. This series explores important conversations about COVID-19, respiratory health, and Indigenous communities, offering thoughtful perspectives and practical insights for listeners across Canada. Lung Saskatchewan is pleased to help share this series with our network and support continued learning around lung health, prevention, and community well-being. Listen to the full series here: https://chroniclungdiseases.com/en/expand-podcast-season-7-covid-19-indigenous-communities/ Episodes are also available on YouTube and through RESPIPLUS’ LinkedIn channels.

Opportunity to Participate in Research - Swallowing Difficulties in Chronic Respiratory Disease

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 09:56:00 -0600

Please share among your relevant patient networks! Swallowing Difficulties in Chronic Respiratory Disease About the Opportunity The Steele Swallowing Rehabilitation Research Lab at KITE Research Institute is inviting people living with chronic respiratory disease to take part in an online research survey. This study is investigating how often people with chronic respiratory diseases experience swallowing difficulties. The research team is looking for participants who are willing to complete a voluntary online survey about their experiences. You may be eligible to participate if you: have a chronic respiratory disease; and are willing to complete an online survey. The survey takes approximately 25 minutes to complete. Participation is voluntary, and eligibility requirements apply. How to Participate To learn more and complete the survey, visit: English Survey: https://redcap.link/RespSurvey French Survey: https://redcap.link/RespSurvey For questions about this research study, contact the research team at TRI-SwallowingLab@uhn.ca or 416-597-3422 ext. 7802.

A Brief History of COPD

Thu, 28 May 2026 08:30:00 -0600

While this, by necessity, must be a brief review of a very complex disease, the perspectives of esteemed clinicians and scientists should be of use to other clinicians in understanding and managing this disease.

Active for life intervention produces a sustained increase in physical activity in people with COPD

Wed, 27 May 2026 10:34:00 -0600

Active for Life with COPD is a self-efficacy-based intervention designed to increase light physical activity. Sustained increases in physical activity were observed through one-year follow up.

Bidirectional association between chronic periodontitis and bronchiectasis

Wed, 27 May 2026 10:32:00 -0600

People with chronic periodontitis had a higher risk of bronchiectasis, while bronchiectasis slightly increased risk of chronic periodontitis. Oral–respiratory interactions highlight the need for integrated management across dental and respiratory care.

Smoking Cessation, Weight Change, and Risk of Dementia

Tue, 26 May 2026 11:20:00 -0600

Smoking cessation was associated with a sustained lower dementia risk and slower cognitive decline, comparable to never smokers and those without short-term risk increase. However, postcessation weight gain may attenuate these advantages, highlighting the need for weight management in cessation programs.

Inhalers and climate change: A sustainable approach to severe asthma management

Tue, 26 May 2026 11:18:00 -0600

A substantial proportion of pMDIs prescribed for severe asthma could be replaced with sustainable alternatives without compromising adherence. The lack of low-emission rescue inhalers highlights a critical area for future innovation in respiratory care.

Prognostic value of gait speed for exacerbations and mortality in COPD

Tue, 26 May 2026 11:14:00 -0600

Gait speed <1.0 m·s−1 in COPD independently predicts higher exacerbation risk, mortality and symptom burden over 3 years, despite similar lung function, highlighting its utility as a simple, integrative prognostic marker

Ozone and risk of COPD

Tue, 26 May 2026 11:10:00 -0600

Even consistently below regulatory limits, the cardiopulmonary effects of ozone were apparent independent of smoking and other atmospheric conditions; certain subgroups might be more susceptible to the harmful effects of ozone

Early-life greenness and childhood asthma and allergic rhinitis

Tue, 26 May 2026 11:08:00 -0600

Early-life exposure to biodiverse green spaces protects against childhood asthma and allergic rhinitis, but benefits decline with age. Clinicians should promote safe green exposure in early years while considering allergens and air quality

The pathobiology and treatment of mucus plugs in asthma and COPD

Tue, 26 May 2026 11:06:00 -0600

CT lung imaging has uncovered a surprisingly high prevalence of airway mucus plugs in patients with asthma and COPD, and treatment of these plugs promises to improve lung health in these patients

Cross-Canada Youth and Young Adult Vaping Survey

Mon, 25 May 2026 12:45:00 -0600

Cross-Canada Youth and Young Adult Vaping Survey About the Opportunity LungNSPEI, the Lung Health Foundation, and Dalhousie University are leading a national research and public education initiative to better understand vaping among youth and young adults across Canada. The Youth and Young Adult Vaping Survey – National Expansion is collecting timely information from people ages 16 to 24 who currently vape or have recently quit vaping. The survey will help researchers better understand vaping behaviours, motivations, product types, marketing exposure, perceptions of risk, and barriers to quitting. The information gathered through this survey will help inform public health messaging, school and community prevention programs, clinical guidance, and policy recommendations aimed at reducing vaping initiation and supporting cessation. You may be eligible to participate if you: are between the ages of 16 and 24; and currently vape or have recently quit vaping. How to Participate To learn more and complete the survey, visit: https://www.lungnspei.ca/vapingsurvey For questions about the promotional toolkit or survey materials, contact Michelle Donaldson at michelledonaldson@lungnspei.ca

Predicting first severe exacerbation in COPD

Wed, 20 May 2026 08:55:00 -0600

The PRECISE-X model accurately predicts the first severe COPD exacerbation using routine clinical data, supporting earlier risk stratification and proactive disease management.

Measurement properties of the sit-to-stand test in community-dwelling people with COPD

Wed, 20 May 2026 08:52:00 -0600

The 1 min sit-to-stand test has the most robust measurement properties for cross-sectional assessments while the 30 s sit-to-stand test is more robust to assess change.

Disproportionate increase in COPD exacerbation risk for 3 months after discontinuing LAMA or ICS

Wed, 20 May 2026 08:49:00 -0600

Study findings suggest potent LAMA and ICS treatment withdrawal effects on exacerbations, highlighting the importance of treatment adherence and accounting for withdrawal effects in clinical trials.

Canadian Respiratory Research Network - Lung Health Registry

Mon, 18 May 2026 11:09:00 -0600

The Canadian Respiratory Research Network has developed a Lung Health Registry that will connect people who are interested in their lung health to research studies that are happening close to home and that fit unique health needs. shAIRe is a network designed to share knowledge and resources related to lung health in Canada. This initiative aims to link and strengthen existing data infrastructures, accelerating lung health research. For more information, click the link above.

Understanding inhaler users' perceptions of climate change and inhaler carbon footprints

Thu, 14 May 2026 16:33:00 -0600

Inhaler users are concerned about climate change but lack awareness of inhaler climate impacts. Sustainability interventions that promote education, safe use of low carbon devices and recycling could reduce inhaler-related climate impacts.

COPD stage progression and regression

Wed, 13 May 2026 08:52:00 -0600

This study reinforces that early detection is likely key to reducing COPD burden. Disease progression may be delayed by early diagnosis, timely treatment, and risk-factor interventions. However, the dynamic nature of early COPD stages and limitations of spirometry pose a challenge for early detection

Respiratory mortality in COPD: fixed ratio versus lower limit of normal in smokers

Wed, 13 May 2026 08:46:00 -0600

This study results support the use of the fixed FEV1/FVC ratio over the LLN for the diagnosis of COPD.

International validation of electronic nose technology as a diagnostic tool for fibrotic interstitial lung diseases

Wed, 13 May 2026 08:43:00 -0600

This international study demonstrates that eNose technology accurately differentiates breath profiles from patients with various ILDs. eNose technology holds potential as an easy point-of-care tool for the diagnosis of fibrotic interstitial lung diseases.

Motivational interviewing and air cleaners for smokers with COPD

Wed, 13 May 2026 08:39:00 -0600

This study is the first to demonstrate potential health benefits from an environmental intervention in active smokers with COPD, most likely attributable to PM reduction associated with portable high-efficiency particulate air cleaner use.

Implications of year 1 Trump Administration policies for Americans’ lung health

Wed, 13 May 2026 08:36:00 -0600

In 2025, the Trump Administration undertook multiple actions with major ramifications for the pulmonary health of Americans.

Impact of Extreme Heat on Emergency Department Admissions for Childhood and Adult Asthma

Tue, 12 May 2026 09:55:00 -0600

This study provides compelling evidence that extreme heat exacerbates asthma in both pediatric and adult populations. It identified significant associations between asthma exacerbations and heat wave definitions that emphasize localized nighttime heat exposure.These findings also highlight the disproportionate burden of extreme heat on socially and economically vulnerable populations

Predicting COPD outcomes with artificial intelligence and traditional statistics

Mon, 11 May 2026 10:18:00 -0600

Accurate prediction in COPD requires less debate about AI versus traditional statistics, and more focus on data quality, methodological rigour, external validation and clinical applicability

Differentiating the start of an exacerbation from day-to-day variation in people with COPD

Mon, 11 May 2026 10:15:00 -0600

This review highlights key evidence showing how daily variation differs from COPD exacerbation onset. Continuous monitoring, reliable measurement tools, and a refined algorithm, along with personalised baseline and thresholds, yield promising results.

Critical Gaps in the Scientific Basis for Electronic Cigarette Regulation

Mon, 11 May 2026 10:07:00 -0600

Gaps in EC regulatory science hinder effective policy development. The panel recommends a focused research agenda addressing pragmatic trials of access restrictions, detailed evaluation of nicotine delivery limits, investigation of non-cardiac/non-malignant risks, and quantification of aerosol toxicity, with attention to diverse real-world use patterns to better inform regulation and protect public health.

Three-Year Outcomes of Proximal Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation in OSA

Mon, 11 May 2026 10:04:00 -0600

Therapeutic responses to proximal hypoglossal nerve stimulation at 1 year were maintained through 3 years with relatively few adverse events. Similarities in responses toproximal hypoglossal nerve stimulation suggest that proximal hypoglossal nerve stimulation provides safe and efficacious long-term OSA treatment.

Evaluating the Accuracy of Large Language Models in Answering Asthma Multiple Choice and Objective Structured Clinical Examination Questions

Mon, 11 May 2026 10:01:00 -0600

Study results indicate that current LLMs demonstrate high accuracy across asthma-related clinical and patient-oriented questions, particularly the ChatGPT family of models. These models may be useful tools to integrate into future patient and clinician education interventions.

Exacerbation Risk by Chronic Proton Pump Inhibitor Use in Obstructive Lung Diseases

Mon, 11 May 2026 10:00:00 -0600

Cumulative PPI use in patients with obstructive lung diseases was associated with an increase in exacerbation risk. This highlights the need to consider PPI use carefully in clinical respiratory practice.

Physical activity phenotypes in obstructive sleep apnea

Mon, 11 May 2026 09:52:00 -0600

Study results support incorporating physical activity assessment into OSA evaluation and encouraging leisure-time physical activity as a complementary strategy to CPAP and weight management.

Effects of inspiratory muscle training on obstructive sleep apnea

Mon, 11 May 2026 09:49:00 -0600

Inspiratory muscle training resulted in clinically meaningful symptomatic benefits across OSA phenotypes by enhancing respiratory strength, sleep quality, and cardiovascular health.

Tele-delivered psychotherapeutic intervention for family members of patients in intensive care: a nonrandomized pilot study

Mon, 11 May 2026 09:48:00 -0600

This tele-based psychotherapeutic intervention for family members of patients in ICUs was feasible and acceptable. Tele-delivered contemporary cognitive therapies present a promising approach for reducing peritraumatic distress, anxiety, and depression.

Real-world effectiveness of asthma biologics by age of initiation and early-childhood risk factors

Mon, 11 May 2026 09:46:00 -0600

Biologics may be more effective with earlier treatment initiation, especially among children with early polysensitization or multiple early-childhood risk factors. Screening for these risk factors may help inform targeted early initiation of biologics for asthma.

Body Mass Index-related genetic factors and COPD imaging phenotypes

Mon, 11 May 2026 09:45:00 -0600

In individuals with and without COPD, a higher BMI polygenic risk is associated with both quantitative and visual decreased emphysema and increased AWT, suggesting genetic determinants of BMI affect both emphysema and airway wall thickening.

Microplastics and respiratory health

Mon, 11 May 2026 09:40:00 -0600

Given (a) that inhalation represents an important route of exposure, (b) the links between respiratory disease and high doses of inhaled plastics amongst individuals exposed in industrial settings, and (c) the vast literature showing that inhaled particles of many types cause lung injury, the impact of microplastics on respiratory health and disease is being actively investigated.

Disease modification and progression in pre–COPD

Mon, 11 May 2026 09:34:00 -0600

This workshop was conducted to promote progress in the design and conduct of clinical trials of treatments that modify progression to COPD.

Summary of NACI statement of April 10, 2026: Updated guidance on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines for older adults and for adults at high risk of severe RSV disease

Tue, 05 May 2026 12:53:00 -0600

On April 10, 2026, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) released the National Advisory Committee on Immunization’s (NACI) Updated guidance on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines for older adults and for adults at high risk of severe RSV disease. This guidance is based on current evidence and NACI expert opinion. Click the link to access the full update.

2026 Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention update

Tue, 05 May 2026 10:52:00 -0600

The 2026 update of the Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention incorporates new scientific information about asthma based on a review of recent scientific literature by an international panel of experts on the GINA Science Committee. NEW: Shake the salbutamol inhaler immediately before each actuation to avoid inadvertent administration of ultra-high doses with a new inhaler (or lower doses if many doses have already been used). Any inhaler formulated as a suspension must be shaken immediately before each actuation.