Chronic cough is a common issue that many people face, especially middle-aged women. Recent studies conducted at Uppsala University have shed new light on this condition, suggesting that it may have a genetic component. These findings, published in ERJ Open Research and PLOS ONE, have important implications for the understanding and treatment of chronic cough.
According to Össur Ingi Emilsson, a Docent in Lung, Allergy and Sleep Research at Uppsala University, more than 10% of the population suffers from chronic cough. This condition can have significant negative impacts on quality of life, work productivity, and even voice health. Despite its prevalence, there is still much to learn about what causes chronic cough and how best to manage it effectively.
Two recent studies from Uppsala University have delved into the management of chronic cough in Swedish healthcare and its potential hereditary nature. Data from the Swedish healthcare register revealed that between 2016 and 2018, one to two percent of the Swedish population sought care for chronic cough, primarily in primary care settings. Notably, women between the ages of 40 and 60 were most affected, with around 21,000 seeking treatment during this timeframe.
Emilsson explains that women may have a more sensitive cough reflex, leading to a lower threshold for abnormal coughing compared to men. Surprisingly, only a small percentage of those affected by chronic cough seek medical help, likely due to limited effective treatments. Discrepancies in care across different regions of the country highlight the need for improved guidelines for investigating and treating chronic cough.
Further research by the Uppsala University team suggests a genetic link to chronic cough. A study involving over 7,000 parents and their adult children found that offspring were more than 50% more likely to have chronic dry cough if one parent had experienced it. This association remained strong even after accounting for factors like asthma, smoking, and biological sex, indicating a potential genetic component to chronic cough.
Building on these findings, the research team at Uppsala University has initiated a treatment study for chronic cough and is collaborating with deCODE genetics, an Icelandic company specializing in genetic analysis. By investigating genetic variants associated with chronic cough, the team hopes to uncover new insights that could lead to more effective treatments for this challenging condition.
Emilsson emphasizes the importance of understanding the genetic basis of chronic cough, as it may pave the way for personalized and targeted therapies in the future. By continuing to explore the genetic underpinnings of this condition, researchers at Uppsala University are striving to improve the lives of those affected by chronic cough.
