Event

Mounting evidence over the past 10-15 years has demonstrated an association between obesity and chronic respiratory conditions in children, including asthma and sleep disorders. In this session, we will review current epidemiological and experimental evidence for these associations. We will then discuss proposed mechanisms including epigenetic regulation, the role of obesity-related metabolic changes, and alterations in the microbiome that may underlie both obesity and childhood respiratory diseases. Next, we will focus on important management considerations for these patients, as well as on the transition to adolescence and adulthood. Finally, we will discuss unanswered questions and propose directions for future research in the field.