Abstract
Background: Short-acting β2-agonist (SABA) overuse (≥3 canisters/yr) is associated with poor asthma outcomes. Recently, the environmental impact of inhaler choice has received much attention, but is often focused on preventers, omitting the contribution of SABAs.
Objective: To assess greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for (i) SABA vs total inhaler use (all respiratory indications) in 21 countries and (ii) SABA overuse in asthma in six countries from the SABA use IN Asthma (SABINA) programme.
Methods: Inhaler use was analysed using sales data from IQVIA™ (09/2018−09/2019). Data were compared by dose, preventing confounding from device actuation count differences. SABA overuse in asthma was assessed using SABINA data (2006–2019). Annual GHG emissions were quantified using published and internal AstraZeneca data.1−3
Results: Across all countries, SABA inhalers represent 29–65% of all inhaler use and account for 47–80% of GHG emissions from inhalers (Fig A). In six SABINA countries, 69–90% of SABA prescriptions for asthma went to patients with ≥3 canisters/yr (overuse; Fig B). SABA overuse contributed to high per capita GHG emissions (78–873 tonnes CO2 equivalent/10,000 people/yr; Fig C).
Conclusion: SABA use commonly constitutes the majority of GHG emissions from inhalers, with overuse in asthma representing a potentially modifiable environmental impact. Reducing dependence on SABAs could improve respiratory care and reduce the carbon footprint.
Footnotes
Cite this article as: European Respiratory Journal 2021; 58: Suppl. 65, PA3549.
This abstract was presented at the 2021 ERS International Congress, in session “Prediction of exacerbations in patients with COPD”.
This is an ERS International Congress abstract. No full-text version is available. Further material to accompany this abstract may be available at www.ers-education.org (ERS member access only).
- Copyright ©the authors 2021
