African American males are among those at greatest risk for severe asthma attacks. In a new study presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology’s (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting in Anaheim, Calif. Nov. 8-13, researchers assessed the relationship between genetic ancestry and severe asthma. It was concluded that African ancestry was significantly associated with severe asthma attacks among African American males, but was not seen among females. These findings suggest increased asthma in this population can be contributed to a genetic factor.
