Research reported in the journal CHEST found that near-fatal asthma exacerbations in children often arise in those with previously mild disease and are due to avoidable irritants. Fully 50% of hospital admissions for severe asthma attacks in one center in Hartford, CT had a history of only intermittent or mild persistent asthma. The identifiable triggers for these exacerbations were largely infectious, but also included smoke, pollen, pets, and cold air. For access to the full study, please click here.