title: The possible role of aero-allergens in the epidemic of asthma deaths.
abstract: The 'epidemic' of asthma deaths observed in the mid 1960s remains unexplained; various aetiological factors having been suggested. We suggest that aero-allergenic factors may have been important based on an analysis of aero-allergens in Cardiff over a 17-year period: a striking temporal association exists between the concentration of hyaline ascospores and increased asthma deaths. These spores, which are particularly prevalent in the summer months, have been inadequately studied as a cause of severe asthma.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000335:Aerosol Propellants / Q000009:adverse effects; D000391:Air Microbiology; D000485:Allergens / Q000276:immunology*; D001249:Asthma / Q000209:etiology / Q000401:mortality*; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006801:Humans; D006109:Poaceae / Q000276:immunology; D011058:Pollen / Q000276:immunology; D012621:Seasons; D013172:Spores, Fungal / Q000276:immunology
chemical_list: D000335:Aerosol Propellants; D000485:Allergens; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents