A new study from HRMI and the University of Newcastle has revealed the possibility of preventing asthma in children.
The study focuses on controlling asthma for pregnant mothers, ensuring positive health benefits for the child.
A trial was undertaken at John Hunter Children's Hospital which saw medical staff integrating a personalised approach and taking into consideration the lung inflammation of each patient.
450 children have died each year in Australia from asthma attacks and it's hoped this new approach will benefit the health of both the mother during her pregnancy and the child.
Director of the University of Newcastle's Priority Research Centre Grow Up Well, Professor Joerg Mattes, says it is one of the most common causes of hospitalisation for younger children.
"Our study shows we have identified the most effective childhood asthma prevention that has been described so far," he said.
The study has shown a reduction of 50% for childhood asthma.
Professor Mattes urges, during pregnancy, asthma be well controlled and to recognise the benefits of taking asthma medication.
"It has a huge benefit for the baby...it is clear that when asthma is uncontrolled it can be very dangerous," he goes on.
Mattes insists the initiative has led to a less severe and more controlled approach to asthma.
"We have seen that it reduces presentations to the emergency department for asthma for children."
Professor Mattes says it is important to realise the control of asthma during pregnancy is not only good for the pregnant women but has a huge benefit for the baby.
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| PICTURED: Professor Joerg Mattes Picture from HMRI.ORG |
