A link between hypothyroidism and decreased lung function might be explained by alveolar hypoventilation, decreased inspiratory muscle strength, and decreased respiratory rates [ 18, 19].
Studies of children attending summer camps often have observed relationships between daily outdoor ozone (O3) concentrations and decreased lung function that are qualitatively similar to results seen in human chamber studies.
Other studies have also noted associations between decreased serum 25(OH D concentrations and decreased lung function, increased airway hyperresponsiveness to methacholine, and blunted glucocorticoid responsiveness.,, However, in a recent case-control study of obese subjects with and without asthma, no associations between vitamin D status and asthma prevalence were noted.
A link has also been shown between maternal exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and a low birth weight [ 14], decreased lung function as well as allergies and asthma in childhood [ 15, 16].
Particle pollution, according to the E.P.A. Web site, is an asthma trigger that can cause bronchitis and decreased lung function.
The agency estimates that the pollution standards will prevent 15,000 premature deaths, 350,000 cases of asthma and one million cases of decreased lung function in children.
Studies have linked pollution of this sort to respiratory problems, decreased lung function, nonfatal heart attacks and aggravated asthma, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Ruiz, a physician, said that the new policy would prevent the E.P.A. from considering studies that have revealed "dangerous health implications" associated with soot, including "premature death, asthma attacks, chronic bronchitis, decreased lung function, and respiratory diseases".
IL-22−/− mice displayed exacerbated lung injury compared with wild-type mice, which correlated with decreased lung function 21 days post infection.
