Chris reviewed research showing how menopause influences the onset of asthma and COPD, alongside other risk factors. The talk also examined why women often experience worse asthma symptoms and faster lung decline from smoking than men. Changes in oestrogen during menopause appear to drive shifts in immune pathways and gene expression, helping explain variations in disease severity across a woman’s life. Finally, Chris highlighted practical takeaways for clinicians based on the emerging evidence.
About the Speaker
Christine Mwasuku is a PhD candidate in Immunology at King’s College London, funded by Asthma + Lung UK and supervised by Professor Mona Bafadhel. She has a background in biological sciences and specialist respiratory nursing, with an honorary clinical contract at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. Her research focuses on understanding oestrogen’s role in women with asthma and COPD, with a strong commitment to improving equity in respiratory care.