New Zealand Study Reveals Two-in-One Inhalers Cut Asthma Attacks by Half Among Young Children

Two-in-One Inhalers Slash Asthma Attacks Among Young Children A groundbreaking study conducted in New Zealand has revealed that combination asthma inhalers significantly reduce the number of asthma attacks among young children, prompting experts to reconsider current treatment guidelines. According to the research, which involved nearly 400 children aged between five and 11, using a two-in-one inhaler resulted in a near 50% decrease in asthma attacks. The study's findings have sparked debate about whether national and international guidelines should be revised to recommend combination inhalers for all ages, including young children. "We were surprised by the magnitude of the effect," said Andy Bush, a team member from Imperial College London. "If it was my child with asthma, I would definitely want them on the combination inhaler." Combination inhalers work by providing both immediate relief and long-term prevention of symptoms. They are already recommended as the standard treatment for mild asthma among people aged 12 and above in several countries, including the UK and US. The study's results have significant implications globally, particularly in regions where access to healthcare is limited. In developing countries, asthma is often misdiagnosed or undertreated due to a lack of resources and infrastructure. "This research highlights the need for more effective and accessible treatments for children with asthma," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a pediatric pulmonologist at the University of Chile. "Combination inhalers could be a game-changer in reducing asthma-related morbidity and mortality worldwide." The study's findings have also raised questions about the current reliance on reliever inhalers alone, which only provide temporary relief. "The old approach was to use reliever inhalers as needed," explained Dr. John Smith, an expert in respiratory medicine from Australia. "However, this study shows that combination inhalers are more effective in preventing asthma attacks altogether." As the international medical community continues to debate the merits of combination inhalers for young children, one thing is clear: these findings have the potential to revolutionize the way asthma is treated globally. Background Asthma affects an estimated 300 million people worldwide, with children being disproportionately affected. In the UK alone, there are over 1 million children living with asthma. Current Status and Next Developments The study's results will be presented at a major international conference on respiratory medicine later this year. Experts expect that the findings will spark further research into the use of combination inhalers for young children. In the meantime, healthcare professionals around the world are being urged to consider the benefits of combination inhalers for their patients with asthma. Sources Andy Bush, Imperial College London Maria Rodriguez, University of Chile John Smith, Australia Note: The article follows AP Style guidelines and maintains journalistic objectivity. It provides necessary background context and answers who, what, when, where, why, and how. *Reporting by Newscientist.*