Mild asthma-What matters to patients and parents
Recommended Citation
Greimann E, Freigeh GE, Wettenstein RP, Nelson B, Carpenter LM, Mohan A, and Baptist A. Mild Asthma- What Matters to Patients and Parents. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2024.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-1-2025
Publication Title
Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology : official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Mild asthma has received less attention despite accounting for most of patient with asthma. However, asthma complications including hospitalizations and progressive loss of lung function frequently occur in such patients. The priorities of patients with mild asthma are unknown, hindering the ability to advance care.
OBJECTIVE: To identify patient and parent perspectives on the definition of mild asthma, treatment preferences, concerns and goals of care.
METHODS: Participants with self-defined mild/intermittent asthma were recruited using emails distributed through the Allergy & Asthma Network and Allergy Foundation of America. A demographic survey and measures of asthma control/quality of life were completed. Focus groups consisting of approximately 5 participants and a focus group leader were conducted.
RESULTS: A total of 20 patients and 20 parents of children with mild asthma participated. Focus groups revealed significant variability in the definition and treatment preferences. Frequency of symptoms appears to be a key driver in treatment decisions for mild asthma, and those with infrequent symptoms were opposed to the addition of an inhaled corticosteroid to albuterol. Use of recommended asthma monitoring strategies such as asthma action plans or peak flow meters was low among adults. Participants desired more education from their providers regarding asthma remission and long-term complications associated with mild asthma.
CONCLUSION: There is significant heterogeneity in the definition and treatment preferences among patients and parents of those with mild asthma. Shared decision making between patients and providers is necessary to personalize medical decisions in those with mild asthma.
Medical Subject Headings
Humans; Asthma; Male; Parents; Female; Adult; Child; Quality of Life; Adolescent; Middle Aged; Focus Groups; Surveys and Questionnaires; Adrenal Cortex Hormones; Young Adult; Severity of Illness Index; Anti-Asthmatic Agents
PubMed ID
39608675
ePublication
ePub ahead of print
Volume
134
Issue
3
First Page
290
Last Page
295
