A cross sectional study of patients with poorly controlled asthma at a referral centre

Abstract

Background: Asthma is a common chronic disease of the airways. Poorly controlled asthma has significant impact on social and economic factors. This study was done to analyse the clinical profile of patients with poorly controlled asthma.Methods: This is an observational, cross sectional study. Total of 100 patients were evaluated. Data collected included symptomatology, assessment of asthma control by asthma control test scoring, spirometry, body mass index, co-morbidities and allergy testing report.Results: Among the 100 patients studied, 52% (n=52) were in the age group of 30 to 60 years. 48% (n=48) were males and 52% (n=52) were females. 76% (n=76) patients had adhered to treatment for bronchial asthma as advised which was in line with standard therapy. 86% (n=86) had co-existing illness. They included allergic rhinitis, obesity, GERD, anxiety, atopic dermatitis and chronic urticaria. 78% (n=78) of these cases were sensitized to indoor and outdoor allergens. 89% of sensitized cases were to house dust mite (n=70 of 78). This was followed by cockroach sensitization which was seen in 30.7% cases (n=24 of 78). Other allergens included pollens in 28.2% cases (n=22 of 78), aspergillus in 25.6% cases (n=20 of 78) and food allergens in 23% cases (n=18 of 78).Conclusions: Poorly controlled asthma cases require detailed evaluation of comorbid conditions and allergen sensitization profiles. Management of these conditions along with allergen control measures may benefit these patients along with step up of therapy.