RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Can we achieve GINA guidelines described asthma control in a developing country?
JF European Respiratory Journal
JO Eur Respir J
FD European Respiratory Society
SP P2267
VO 40
IS Suppl 56
A1 Kaleem Ullah Toori
A1 Sumaira Nabi
YR 2012
UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/40/Suppl_56/P2267.abstract
AB Introduction: In Pakistan, 5% of adult population suffer from asthma. Poor disease control accounts for morbidity and recurrent hospitalization. Prospective studies assessing asthma control in Pakistan are lacking.Aims & Objectives: To assess asthma control and factors predicting good asthma control.Methods: Consecutive 50 asthma patients were studied in this prospective, interventional study from April to December, 2010. Diagnosis was confirmed by rise in FEV1 of ≥12% after bronchodilator. Patients were assessed during intervention period at weeks 0, 4 and 8 and finally after 6 months. Data was analysed using SPSS version 17.Results: Mean age was 43 years with predominent females (66%). 50% were in lower social class and 58% had family history of asthma. Majority belonged to mild (42%) or moderate (48%) persistent varieties of asthma. At initial assessment 24% used inhalers correctly and 52% required treatment modification according to GINA guidelines. At completion of intervention period 70% had well controlled asthma, 60% used inhaler correctly and 66% were compliant with treament. At completion of non-interventional period (after 6 months) only 40% had well controlled asthma, 44% used inhalers correctly and 50% were compliant with treatment. A linear regression analysis recognised correct inhaler technique and treatment compliance as significant predictors of good asthma control while age, gender, social class, educational level, severity and family history of asthma were not of any signifuicance in this regard.Conclusion: GINA guidelines stated asthma control is achievable in our setting provided repeated patient education, correct inhaler technique and compliance to medical therapy are ensured.