Chicago, IL – Everyday exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, allergens, and air pollution may be the root of chronic cases of laryngitis, says new research presented at the 2008 American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO in Chicago, IL.
Laryngitis symptoms include hoarseness of the voice, cough, and chronic clearing of the throat. Researchers and physicians generally attribute laryngitis to a viral infection and overuse of the voice. Other factors, including consistent exposure to second-hand smoke, have also been cited as a trigger.
Researchers have now found through animal models that exposure to different environmental pollutants, including dust mites and everyday air pollution, can cause what they term as "environmental laryngitis."
The findings are significant, given recent reports on diminishing air quality and increased unhealthy levels of ozone and particle pollution, especially in countries like China, which could lead to more cases of laryngitis and chronic laryngitis.
Title: Effect of Allergens and Tobacco Smoke on Laryngeal Mucosa
Presenters: Peter C. Belafsky, MD, PhD, MPH (presenter); Debbie A. Mouadeb, MD; Kent Pinkerton, MD; Martin A. Birchall, FRCS; Thomas Konia, MD
Date: September 22, 2008, 8:00 am – 9:00 am
(all times CDT)
Information for the Media:
The AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO newsroom will be located in Room 265, Lakeside Level 2, McCormick Place Convention Center. Hours of operation: Saturday, September 20, 12 pm to 5 pm; Sunday - Tuesday, September 21 - 23, 7:30 am to 5 pm; and Wednesday, September 24, 7:30 am to 2 pm. The newsroom serves as a work space for credentialed members of the media and credentialed public relations staff. The newsroom is managed and staffed by the AAO-HNS Communications Unit. Please see the AAO-HNS website for media credentialing requirements for the event.
About the AAO-HNS
The American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (http://www.entnet.org), one of the oldest medical associations in the nation, represents more than 12,000 physicians and allied health professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The Academy serves its members by facilitating the advancement of the science and art of medicine related to otolaryngology and by representing the specialty in governmental and socioeconomic issues. The organization's vision: "Empowering otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons to deliver the best patient care."
Onsite Newsroom: 312-949-3470