Sleep Disordered Breathing in Hospitalized African-Americans.

Rationale: Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a common disorder in general population, with higher prevalence in population with comorbid cardiovascular disease, and yet it remains frequently undiagnosed. Prior published data show that hospitalized obese patients have a high incidence of unrecognized SDB. However, limited data exists on the incidence, prevalence, and impact of SDB in hospitalized obese African-American (AA) patients.

Undiagnosed OSA May Significantly Affect Outcomes in Adults Admitted for COPD in an Inner-City Hospital.

Background: COPD is the second most common cause of hospital admission in the United States. OSA is a highly prevalent and underdiagnosed condition that may affect the outcome of COPD.

Research Question: We hypothesized that presence of unrecognized and untreated OSA will increase hospital readmissions in patients admitted for COPD exacerbation.

Safety of Adding Salmeterol to Fluticasone Propionate in Children with Asthma.

Background: Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) have been shown to increase the risk of asthma-related death among adults and the risk of asthma-related hospitalization among children. It is unknown whether the concomitant use of inhaled glucocorticoids with LABAs mitigates those risks. This trial prospectively evaluated the safety of the LABA salmeterol, added to fluticasone propionate, in a fixed-dose combination in children.

A patient preference study that evaluated fluticasone furoate and mometasone furoate nasal sprays for allergic rhinitis.

Background: Corticosteroid nasal sprays are the mainstay of treatment for allergic rhinitis. These sprays have sensory attributes such as scent and/or odor, taste and aftertaste, and run down the throat and/or the nose, which, when unpleasant, can affect patient preference for, and compliance with, treatment.

Objective: This study examined patient preference for fluticasone furoate nasal spray (FFNS) or mometasone furoate nasal spray (MFNS) based on their sensory attributes after administration in patients with allergic rhinitis.

The association between seasonal asthma exacerbations and viral respiratory infections in a pediatric population receiving inhaled corticosteroid therapy with or without long-acting beta-adrenoceptor agonist: a randomized study.

Background: A seasonal peak in asthma exacerbations in the fall has previously been reported. The association between fall exacerbations and viral respiratory tract infections (RTI) remains uncertain.

Objective: To investigate the number of fall exacerbations and the incidence of RTIs in a pediatric asthmatic population using an at-home mucus collection methodology.