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Control of asthma in the Maghreb: results of the AIRMAG study
Ali Benkheder1, Hend Bouacha, Salim Nafti
1Ariana Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia.
Background:
The goal of asthma management is to achieve disease control, defined. as the ability to lead a normal life with normal pulmonary function. However, many epidemiological surveys have demonstrated that asthma control is unacceptable in the majority of patients.
Objective:
To evaluate asthma control in 624 adults with asthma in the Maghreb, participating in the AIRMAG survey.
Methods:
As part of a general population survey of asthma in the Maghreb conducted by structured telephone interview, information was obtained on asthma control and treatment. Control was determined with the Asthma Control Test (ACT) and using an algorithm based on the GINA control guidelines.
Results:
The mean ACT score was 16.6 +/- 4.6, corresponding to uncontrolled asthma. Asthma was uncontrolled (ACT score
Conclusions:
Asthma control is unacceptably poor in the Maghreb. This could be changed by improved access to appropriate treatments, more proactive patient follow-up and better patient education.
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