Patients attitude towards asthma in Ile-Ife

There seems to be a paucity of data concerning the attitude of asthmatics towards asthma, its treatment and its effects on their lives in most developing countries. Inadequate attention paid to the psychological and social aspects of asthma could be a significant factor responsible for increase in morbidity and mortality from asthma despite major advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. This study aimed at investigating the attitude of asthmatics to the disease (using an asthma dislike questionnaire) to form the basis of a more comprehensive health education programme for asthmatics.

An asthma-dislike questionnaire was administered to asthmatic patients who were invited for an Asthma Education Programme. This was done prior to the commencement of the lectures. Information elicited was on dislike of physical condition, emotional dysfunction, dislike of psychosocial effects, public-life interference and dislike of medication.

Two-third of the asthmatics complained of interference with physical activities. Over 25% indicated being more intolerant towards others. 50% of the patients expressed the fear of dying from sudden asthmatic attack. Two-thirds of the patients expressed concern over the increasing cost of medication and adverse effects of asthma on their public lives.

This study confirmed that asthma is not just a physical condition, but also has psychosocial components, which varies from person to person. The use of a biopsychosocial approach to augment asthma therapy is advocated.