Respiratory Disease: Stormy Outlook for Asthma
2008
Thunderstorms and Asthma: A Surprising Link
Sample size: 215832
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Andrew Grundstein, Christine A. Rogers, Stefanie Sarnat
Primary Institution: University of Georgia, Athens
Hypothesis
Do thunderstorms increase the number of asthma attacks requiring emergency room visits?
Conclusion
The study found that emergency room visits for asthma attacks increased by about 3% on days following thunderstorms.
Supporting Evidence
- The study confirms the association between thunderstorms and asthma outbreaks.
- 24,350 asthma emergency room visits occurred on the day after thunderstorms.
- Emergency room visits represent an extreme outcome of asthma flare-ups.
Takeaway
After thunderstorms, more people with asthma go to the hospital because the rain can make pollen worse.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from 10 million emergency room visits to 41 hospitals in Atlanta from 1993 to 2004.
Limitations
The study may not capture all asthma flare-ups since not everyone seeks medical help.
Participant Demographics
Data from emergency room visits in Atlanta, Georgia.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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