303 Autopsy and toxicologic findings in asthma deaths in Cook County (Chicago), Illinois

Investigating Asthma Deaths among Children and Young Adults: Michigan Asthma Mortality Review

“…Second, in different geographic areas, some factors may be more important than others (i.e., substance abuse was found to be more of a risk factor in Cook County asthma deaths than in all Michigan or even just Detroit deaths). 9 Conducting the investigations and participating in the review panels had a substantial impact on panel members and asthma staff. Several panel members reported that they have altered their practice patterns and/or organization's procedures in direct response to the discussions held during review panel meetings.…”

“…3 Over-reliance on Beta-agonists 4,5 and failure to appropriately prescribe and/or use inhaled corticosteroids [6][7][8] have been associated with increased asthma mortality. Smoking, drinking, substance abuse, 9 and family problems have been associated with increased asthma mortality, while the use of peak flow meters and a written asthma action plan have been associated with decreased asthma mortality. 10 Fatal asthma has also been associated with specific work exposures.…”

Prevalence of common chronic respiratory diseases in drug misusers: a cohort study

“…Previous studies have been unable to provide such evidence, [12][13][14][15][16][17][18] although an association between drug misuse and acute asthma episodes has been reported. These include an association between cocaine misuse and intensive care unit admissions and between cocaine or heroin misuse and increased intubation rates in asthma exacerbations.…”

“…11 Other previous studies also suggest a possible association between asthma mortality and drug misuse. [12][13][14] However, conflicting results have been reported for the association between the development of chronic respiratory disease and drug misuse. [15][16][17][18] From the small amount of published information in this area, it could be hypothesised that patients who misuse drugs may be more susceptible to respiratory disease and may also be receiving suboptimal treatment.…”

Myocardial Injury During Standard Treatment of an Adult with Status Asthmaticus

“…Additional factors, such as low socioeconomic status, learning difficulties, and psychosocial issues, are barriers to proper and timely care of the underlying inflammation that contribute to the high-risk profile (7). In adults, these factors are often confounded by substance abuse and lack of compliance with medical therapy even when health care is available (8).…”