The constant search for innovative solutions and more effective treatments has led to significant progress in the research of pulmonary diseases, marking a milestone in the understanding and clinical approach to these medical conditions.
In this blog, we highlight some of the milestones reached in pulmonary health research. We mention some of the most notable or surprising developments of 2023 and, especially, emphasize the dedication of the scientific community to improve the lives of patients through innovation in lung function testing, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.
By América Torres
The ATS removes race and ethnicity from spirometry
The American Thoracic Society (ATS) removed race and ethnicity from the values to be considered when interpreting spirometry. They stated that these notions were more of a social construct than a parameter with biological foundation, which could increase health disparities. Instead, the ATS recommended replacing race and ethnicity with race-neutral average reference equations.
Click here to read more about this.
Pulmonary hypertension in adults
Understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of pulmonary hypertension (PH) has helped transform this field. Knowing that the five main groups of pulmonary hypertension differ in epidemiology, causes and risk factors, underlying disease mechanisms, and clinical presentation has opened the door to developing a wide range of therapeutic options focused on the distinctive features of each condition. We share with you a series of studies published in The Lancet dedicated to PH.
Click here to read them.
Trends 2023 from the American Lung Association
This institution provides a series of reports based on the analysis of data from various health statistics agencies. These documents offer a quick overview of the situation on topics such as:
- Asthma
- COPD
- Smoking
- Lung cancer
- Prevalence of lung diseases
These reports help guide clinicians and researchers toward better prevention and treatment policies. Click here to visit the American Lung Association.
Clinical definition of asthma remission
The development of a wide variety of therapeutic treatments to control asthma has made clinical remission a viable goal. However, there was no consensus on how to define this stage. To address this gap, the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), and the American Thoracic Society (ATS) formed a joint working group composed of six allergists, three pulmonologists, and two pediatricians.
This group reviewed the available literature on asthma remission and previously proposed definitions, concluding that there was no universally accepted definition of clinical remission under treatment. As a result, the team set out to establish a consensus definition based on six specific criteria. Click here to read the official statement.
Advances in Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension
In comparison to adult cohorts, the etiology of pediatric pulmonary hypertension (PH) is often multifactorial, with contributions from prenatal, genetic, and developmental factors. The authors of the study “Recent Advances in Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment” (Rachel T Sullivan et al.) compile information available over the last 10 years to provide an updated insight into the causes and classification of pediatric PH, describe current treatments, and highlight the need for future and necessary research in this area. Click here to read the original study.
SCHILLER Devices: Innovation in Pulmonary Function Testing
As advancements in pulmonary health research continue to reshape diagnostics and treatments, having access to accurate, reliable tools is essential. SCHILLER offers advanced solutions for pulmonary function testing that support clinicians and researchers in making precise diagnoses and monitoring progress in patients with respiratory diseases.
Two standout pulmonary diagnostic devices from SCHILLER include:
SpiroScout, Unmatched Precision in Ultrasonic Spirometry. The SpiroScout is the world’s first spirometer based on ultrasonic flow measurement. It delivers highly accurate results with no moving parts, ensuring low maintenance and consistent performance. Ideal for asthma diagnosis, COPD assessment, and clinical trials. SpiroScout is fully compliant with current ATS/ERS guidelines.
tremoflo®: Measuring Small Airway Function. The tremoflo® Airwave Oscillometry System provides unique insight into small airway function, offering data not available from conventional spirometry. That’s why we say that oscillometry and spirometry are complementary tests—when used together, they provide a wealth of information that helps clinicians deliver accurate diagnoses and make more informed treatment decisions.
Moreover, tremoflo® is ideal for patients who struggle with the spirometry maneuver, such as children. It is also useful for individuals with neurological disabilities or those who are unable to follow instructions.
Try SpiroScout for Free
Want to see how the SpiroScout fits into your workflow before committing? SCHILLER’s Trial Program gives you the chance to test it in your own clinical setting at no cost—and with no obligation to buy.
It’s simple: experience the accuracy, ease of use, and patient-friendly design firsthand. If it’s a match, keep it. If not, just send it back. No hidden conditions, no fine print—just a chance to make a confident decision.
Click below to learn more and request your free trial today.
Let us show you how our pulmonary solutions can meet your specific needs. Whether you work in research, clinical care, or both, our specialists are ready to provide a customized demonstration of SpiroScout spirometer, tremoflo® oscillometer, or other SCHILLER pulmonary technologies. See the difference that cutting-edge lung function testing equipment can make in your practice.
FAQ
1 What were the top clinical advances in pulmonary health in 2023?
Key advances include the removal of race and ethnicity in spirometry interpretation by the ATS, new definitions for asthma remission, updated treatments for pulmonary hypertension in both adults and children, and insights from the American Lung Association on trends in asthma, COPD, and lung cancer.
2 Why did the American Thoracic Society change spirometry guidelines?
The ATS updated its guidelines to eliminate race and ethnicity as factors in spirometry interpretation, replacing them with race-neutral reference equations to promote equity and reduce health disparities in respiratory care.
3 What are the latest treatment strategies for pulmonary hypertension?
Recent research highlights disease-specific therapies for different groups of PH based on pathophysiological mechanisms, with particular attention to pediatric PH and precision medicine approaches.