Dyson technology used to research the effects of air purification on asthma

New research aims to determine if air purification in the home can support improved management of asthma symptoms.

The research is a partnership between Dyson and the David Hide Asthma and Allergy Research Centre in the United Kingdom and will involve placing Dyson air purifiers in the homes of study participants.

As people generally spend 90% of their lives indoors, indoor air quality plays a significant role in respiratory health. Pollution sources like microscopic particles from vehicle emissions and pollen, can enter homes and combine with indoor pollution sources like cleaning products, pet dander, cooking fumes and scented candles. As modern homes are built to be better sealed to comply with energy efficiency requirements, pollutants can become trapped inside, compromising airflow circulation.

“Improved air quality with lower levels of allergens and pollutants could improve the health of individuals with asthma,” explains Professor Hasan Arshad, the leader researcher and a consultant at St. Mary’s Hospital in the UK. “Therefore, a feasible and practical intervention such as a Dyson air purifier that can reduce allergens and pollutant levels in indoor air, might reduce asthma symptoms and improve control.”

The study will include participants whose asthma is not currently optimally controlled on their current asthma treatment plan. Each will receive two air purifiers: one for their bedroom and another for the living room. The David Hide Asthma and Allergy Centre will provide half of the participants with active devices, with the others receiving non-operational machines. All the patients will be tested regularly for lung function, allergy and asthma symptoms over the course of the research period.

Dyson is a Gold sponsor of The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation’s Friends of the Foundation programme and a key supporter of the Foundation’s work in improving respiratory health outcomes for New Zealanders.

For more on Dyson’s work on air quality and for future results from the study please visit: www.dyson.co.nz/products/air-quality