Dissertation Defense: "Joint Effects of Environmental Risk Factors on Childhood Asthma Exacerbation" by Wanyu Huang, MS, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics.

Dissertation advisors: Anneclaire De Roos and Amy Auchincloss

Multiple environmental factors are asthma exacerbation triggers, calling for more epidemiologic studies to evaluate their joint effects. First, the interactions were estimated between PM2.5 and aeroallergens (i.e., pollen, molds) on childhood asthma exacerbation in Philadelphia, PA. Following, effects of detected local respiratory virus infections were assessed – in modifying the independent effects of PM2.5 and aeroallergens, respectively. Last, prediction models were constructed, considering independent and joint effects of multiple time-varying predictors (trigger levels), to identify local exposure scenarios on days with higher-than-normal risk of exacerbation events.

Wanyu’s research focuses on different environmental epidemiologic issues. Her research interest includes environmental triggers and allergic respiratory outcomes. Her past research work assessed the effects of air pollutants on childhood asthma exacerbation in the Philadelphia metropolitan region. In addition, part of her research work also focuses on urban greenspace and cardiovascular mortality.