Study to Evaluate the Effects of Weight Loss on Airway Inflammation and Mechanics in Subjects With Asthma (Asthma-Bariatric Surgery Study)

Study Summary

Current research shows that obesity greatly increases the risk of developing asthma. Although the two conditions are clearly related, experts do not fully understand why they are linked. Some researchers believe that hormones released in the fat cells (adipokines) play a role. Others believe that excess weight pressing on the lungs triggers the hyperreactive response in the airways that is typical of asthma. The goal of the Asthma-Bariatric Surgery Study is to determine how weight loss affects lung function and various biological parameters. Bariatric (weight loss) surgery refers to the various surgical procedures performed to treat obesity. Specifically, this study is designed to answer the following questions: * Does bariatric surgery help patients control their asthma? * How much asthma control can be achieved through weight loss? * How does weight loss influence lung function? Participants in this observational research study will be asked to complete study visits at enrollment, 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months. Questionnaires, pulmonary function tests, and blood samples will be required at each time point. This research study is observational only; it does not cover the cost of (or provide) bariatric surgery. Optional genetic and bronchoscopy substudies are included as well.