Can we Achieve GINA Guidelines Described Asthma Control in a Developing Country?

Objectives: To assess asthma control and factors predicting good asthma control in our study population. Study Design: It is a prospective, interventional study. Place Duration: This study was done in KRL General Hospital, Islamabad from April to December 2010. Materials Methods: A consecutive series of 50 asthma patients were studied. 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 analyzed using SPSS version 17. Results: Mean age was 43 years with predominant 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 treatment. 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 recognized 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 significance 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.