The potential role of folate status on pulmonary function in pediatric asthma

ABSTRACT Objective The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between plasma folate status and measures of airway disease (as reflected by spirometry) in asthmatic children on a Traditional Mediterranean diet. We hypothesized that folate deficiency is associated with lung function impairment in asthmatic children. Methods This cross-sectional study included 64 mild asthmatic children (52% male, mean age 8.0 ± 2.0 years) residing in Athens, Greece. Clinical assessments included spirometry and Fractional exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO). Plasma 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) was analysed using High Performance-Liquid Chromatography assay (HPLC) and examined in subjects using quartiles (Q1-Q4). Results Of the 64 children, 45.3% were folate deficient (5-MTHF Conclusion The findings of this study highlight the potential negative impact of folate deficiency on pulmonary function in asthmatic girls, the importance of monitoring folate status in asthmatic children and early prevention strategies.