Paracetamol linked to asthma

London, Sept 19 (PTI) People who regularly use paracetamol are nearly three times
more likely to develop asthma, a research has suggested.

The study, which has been published in the European Respiratory Journal, found that
the risk of suffering asthma symptoms are nearly three times more likely for those
using paracetamol at least once a week.

However, other painkillers did not have the same effect, according to the Global
Allergy and Asthma European Network, which carried out the research.

"Epidemiological evidence is growing that shows a link between paracetamol and
asthma," said Dr Seif Shaheen, one of the authors of the study.

"Since 2000, several publications have reported this association. We have also shown
that asthma prevalence is higher in countries with higher paracetamol sales,"
Shaheen, from the Imperial College London, was quoted as saying by the Mail online
Thursday.

The researchers believe regular use of paracetamol decreases levels of the
antioxidant glutathione, found in the airways and the nose, which protects the lungs
from air pollution and tobacco smoke and the harmful effects of free radicals.

Some scientists, however, have suggested further research "to identify whether
paracetamol actually plays a role in causing the condition".

"If that is proven, it could potentially enable us reduce the number of people
developing asthma," said HowLeanne Male, Asthma UK's Assistant Director of Research.