Independent risk factors associated with fixed airflow obstruction (FAO) in older adults with asthma have been identified, according to the results of a prospective study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

Gregory H. Bennett, DO, and colleagues evaluated participants using the Asthma Control Test (ACT) score, Asthma Quality of Life (AQLQ) score, comorbidities, spirometry measures, atopic status, and fractional exhaled nitric oxide level. Clinical characteristics and outcomes associated with FAO were then assessed.

The study (Achieving Better Control for Older Adults With Asthma; ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01979055) included 186 participants (48 men and 138 women; mean age, 66 years), 30% of whom had FAO.