Obesity and Hormonal Influences on Asthma: Mechanisms, Management Challenges, and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies

Obesity and hormonal dysregulation, common comorbidities of asthma, not only influence asthma risk and onset but can also complicate its management. The pathobiological characteristics of obesity, such as insulin resistance and metabolism alterations, can impact lung function and airway inflammation while highlighting potential opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Likewise, obesity alters immune cell phenotypes and corticosteroid pharmacokinetics. Hormones such as sex hormones, incretins, and thyroid hormones can also affect asthma. This review highlights the mechanisms underlying obesity-related asthma and hormonal pathologies while exploring potential therapeutic strategies and the need for more research and innovative approaches in managing these comorbid conditions.