Sunday, April 24, 2011

Farm bugs bring hope of asthma vaccine


Bugs found on farms could help children avoid asthma, new research suggests.

A team of scientists identified several types of 'dirty' bacteria and fungi that seem to reduce children's chances of developing asthma. These micro-organisms are linked to known lower rates of asthma among children who grow up on farms.

Researchers, led by Dr Markus Ege from the University of Munich in Germany, focused on a group of Bavarian schoolchildren, comparing those living on farms with others from the same rural districts who did not.

Scientists hope this discovery could pave the way to a vaccine for asthma. Dr Markus Ege said: 'We have a long way to go before we can present new preventative measures, but at least we now have candidates for the development of a vaccine.'

Leanne Metcalf, Director of Research for Asthma UK comments: 'This study adds to evidence supporting the “hygiene hypothesis”, which shows that early exposure to potential allergens reduces the risk of asthma and allergy development.

'Although research repeatedly links the farming lifestyle with a reduction in asthma and allergies, it is still unclear how this information can be used in prevention strategies, either through vaccines or other methods.

'The UK has among the highest prevalence rates of asthma symptoms in children worldwide, so it is incredibly important to understand how we can use this existing research to prevent the development of asthma and allergies.

'More specific studies in this area are needed so we can work towards preventing asthma and allergies in the first place, ultimately improving the lives of children and their families.' 

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