Dr. Darryl Adamko MD, FRCPC
Dr. Darryl Adamko is a children’s lung health expert whose research could change the way children are diagnosed with lung disease. The Saskatchewan doctor is passionate about helping children breathe easier earlier and improve their overall health so they may enjoy a healthy future. “I am studying a new way to diagnose and monitor lung diseases. If it works, it will help family doctors better manage lung disease,” says Dr. Adamko.
Finding a new, more accessible way to diagnose lung disease, takes inspiration. Dr. Adamko says he is motivated by the children he works with. “Seeing a child’s growth and general well-being improve is the most rewarding to me. Healthy children become healthy adults.”
Dr. Adamko’s interest in respiratory health in children began early on in his medical career. As a pediatric resident, he helped care for the children at The Lung Association Saskatchewan’s, Asthma Camp. The experience helped solidify his desire to become a children’s doctor. “I remember The Lung Association Saskatchewan’s, Asthma Camp being fun and entertaining. It was my job to make sure the children were safe at camp. As a medical student, it was a bit stressful worrying about their health, but it was a good learning experience for me. I saw how the children viewed their disease and how they responded to our teaching.”
Years later Dr. Adamko not only focuses on improving the lives of today’s children he is a pioneer for future generations through his innovative research and education on lung health. “People need to understand that breathing disorders are very common and they cause a large healthcare burden. Often lung disease starts in the young and lasts into adulthood. Asthma is the leading chronic (long-term) disease in children. Obstructive sleep apnea, a disease that causes pauses in the breathing while asleep in children can have lasting problems. It is my hope that my research will allow these diseases to be treated better and earlier. The children I help today empower me to push harder for a healthier tomorrow for everyone”