Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition affecting millions of women globally. The causes of asthma are complex, multifactorial, and include both genetic and environmental factors.

Women have a higher prevalence and incidence of asthma than men, and several factors contribute to this. This article explores the factors that influence asthma risk in women.

1. Hormonal factors

Research shows that hormonal factors play a significant role in the development, severity, and prevalence of asthma in women.

The female sex hormone, estrogen, affects airway smooth muscle cells, inflammation, and immune cells, leading to increased airway sensitivity and narrowing. Additionally, changes in hormonal levels during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms in women.

2. Genetic factors

Asthma has a strong genetic component, and studies show that women are more likely to inherit asthma from their parents. Variations in genes associated with immune function and airway inflammation can increase the risk of developing asthma.

Additionally, certain gene-environment interactions, such as exposure to pollutants, can trigger asthma onset and exacerbations.

3. Environmental factors

Environmental factors play a significant role in asthma development and exacerbations in women. Exposure to allergens such as dust mites, animal dander, and pollen can trigger asthma symptoms.

Similarly, exposure to irritants such as smoke, air pollution, and workplace chemicals can worsen asthma symptoms in women. Additionally, indoor environments with poor air quality, humidity, and mold increase the risk of asthma onset and exacerbations.

4. Obesity

There is a strong association between obesity and asthma in women. Studies show that women with a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) have a higher risk of developing asthma and experiencing more severe symptoms.

Obesity can lead to inflammation, changes in immune function, and altered respiratory mechanics, increasing the risk of asthma onset and exacerbations.

5. Stress

Chronic stress is associated with increased risk of asthma in women. Stress can affect immune function, airway smooth muscle function, and inflammation, leading to asthma symptoms.

Additionally, stress triggers behaviors such as smoking and poor diet, which increase the risk of developing asthma and exacerbations in women.

6. Allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a common allergic condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Women with allergic rhinitis have a higher risk of developing asthma.

Research shows that exposure to allergens in the nose and sinuses can trigger asthma symptoms and exacerbations in women with allergic rhinitis.

7. Medications

Some medications can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms in women. Pain relievers such as aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause asthma exacerbations in some women.

Additionally, beta-blockers used to treat high blood pressure, glaucoma, and anxiety can worsen asthma symptoms.

8. Smoking

Cigarette smoking is a significant risk factor for asthma in women. Women who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke are at an increased risk of developing asthma and experiencing more severe symptoms.

Smoking damages airway cells, leading to inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe.

9. Occupational exposures

Women working in certain occupations with exposure to dust, fumes, and chemicals have an increased risk of developing asthma. These include healthcare workers, cleaners, and hairdressers.

Exposure to these occupational irritants can lead to asthma symptoms and exacerbations.

10. Infections

Viral and bacterial infections can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms in women. Respiratory infections, such as the flu and pneumonia, can lead to asthma exacerbations.

Additionally, exposure to certain bacteria in the home or workplace can increase the risk of developing asthma.