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Living with asthma in Sweden--the ALMA study
B Ställberg1, U Nyström Kronander, P Olsson
1Trosa Health Care Centre, 619 33 Trosa, Sweden. b.stallberg@salem.mail.telia.com
Respiratory Medicine
|July 12, 2003
Summary
Swedish asthma patients experience daily limitations and frequent symptoms, often underestimated by general practitioners. This highlights a significant gap in understanding asthma management and patient-reported outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Patient-Reported Outcomes
- Healthcare Disparities
Background:
- Studies reveal limitations in daily life for asthma patients.
- A significant perception gap exists between asthmatics and healthcare professionals regarding disease impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand what matters to Swedish asthma patients.
- To investigate medication use and adherence among asthmatics.
- To compare asthmatics' and general practitioners' (GPs) perceptions of asthma management.
Main Methods:
- Structured telephone interviews with 240 asthmatics (aged 18-45).
- Mailed questionnaire survey to 139 Swedish general practitioners (GPs).
- Screening of 10,350 individuals for asthma symptom assessment.
Main Results:
- 16% of asthmatics reported daily symptoms; 19% experienced nocturnal symptoms at least twice weekly.
- Asthmatics reported more frequent symptoms than GPs anticipated.
- Common triggers included physical exertion (67%), weather (59%), and pets (58%), leading to activity avoidance.
Conclusions:
- Most asthmatics report significant symptoms and daily limitations.
- Patient-reported limitations align with, but are not fully captured by, GP expectations.
- There is a need to bridge the perception gap in asthma care.