Current concepts in Asthma control: Is it achievable?

ABSTRACT

Asthma control is the central focus of Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) guidelines, which is defined as the extent to which the various manifestations of asthma observed in the patient are reduced or removed by treatment. It is determined by the interaction between the patient's genetic background, underlying disease processes, the treatment that they are tak-ing, environment and psychological factors.The long-term goals of asthma management are to achieve good symptom control, and to minimise future risk of exacer-bations, fixed airflow limitation and side-effects of treatment. The patient's own goals regarding their asthma and its treat-ment should also be identified.Several factors have been identified which contribute to failure in achieving asthma control despite adequate drug therapy. To assist in assessing asthma control, several validated questionnaires have been developed.Despite the goal of asthma management is attaining optimal control; majority of asthmatics are not well controlled. Global surveys of asthma care have suggested only 5% of asthmatics meet the goals of asthma management as set out in guidelines.Global multi centre research should be conducted especially in developing countries on asthma control to assess the impact and adequacy of asthma care in all the regions of the wor