• Background: Epidemiologic evidence related to asthma control in   patients from the general population is scanty. Objectives: We sought to assess asthma control in several European   centers according to the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) guidelines   and to investigate its determinants. Methods: In the European Community Respiratory Health Survey 11   (1999-2002), 1241 adults with asthma were identified and classified   into inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) users and non-ICS users in the last   year. Control was assessed in both groups by using the GINA proposal   (controlled, partly controlled, and uncontrolled asthma), and it was   related to potential determinants. Results: Only 15% (95% CI, 12% to 19%) of subjects who had used ICSs in   the last year and 45% (95% CI, 41% to 50%) of non-ICS users had their   asthma under control; individuals with uncontrolled asthma accounted   for 49% (95% CI, 44% to 53%) and 18% (95% CI, 15% to 21%),   respectively. Among ICS users, the prevalence of uncontrolled asthma   showed great variability across Europe, ranging from 20% (95% CI, 7% to   41%; Iceland) to 67% (95% CI, 35% to 90%; Italy). Overweight status, chronic cough and phlegm, and sensitization to Cladosporium species   were associated with poor control in ICS users. About 65% and 87% of   ICS users with uncontrolled and partly controlled asthma, respectively,   were on a medication regimen that was less than recommended by the GINA   guidelines. Conclusion: Six of 7 European asthmatic adults using ICSs in the last   year did not achieve good disease control. The large majority of   subjects with poorly controlled asthma were using antiasthma drugs in a   suboptimal way. A wide variability in asthma control emerged across   Europe. Clinical implications: Greater attention should be paid to asthma management and to the implementation of the GINA guidelines.

Nyckelord

Adult

Allergens/adverse effects

Animals

Asthma/diagnosis/*drug therapy/*epidemiology

Cross-Sectional Studies

Disease Management

European Union

Female

Humans

Male

Practice Guidelines as Topic/standards

Prevalence

Questionnaires

Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

Risk Factors

Severity of Illness Index

MEDICINE

MEDICIN

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