In February 2019 researchers from the USA published the results of their study to assess whether vitamin D modified the effect of indoor air pollution on asthma symptoms in children. A total of 120 children, aged 5-12 years, and diagnosed with asthma were included in the study. 36% were considered obese. Indoor air pollution (particulate matter 2.5), vitamin D levels and asthma symptoms were assessed at the start of the study and thereafter every 3 months for a period of 9 months. Results showed that indoor air pollution appeared to have a significantly greater effect on daytime asthma symptoms if the child was obese and had low vitamin D levels. In homes with increased indoor air pollution, obese children with higher vitamin D levels appeared to be less likely to experience asthma symptoms.
Bose S et al. Vitamin D status modifies the response to indoor particulate matter in obese urban children with asthma. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2019 Feb 11. [Epub ahead of print]