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Published on: August 24, 2019
[Portuguese-language version of the Asthma Control Test]
Jaqueline Petroni Faria Roxo1, Eduardo Vieira Ponte, Daniela Campos Borges Ramos
1Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil. jaque_pfaria@hotmail.com
Summary
A new Portuguese version of the Asthma Control Test (ACT) effectively assesses asthma control in Brazil. This validated tool demonstrates good reproducibility and responsiveness for patients with varying socioeconomic backgrounds.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Clinical Assessment Tools
- Health Outcomes Research
Background:
- Asthma control is crucial for patient quality of life.
- Validated assessment tools are needed for diverse populations.
- The Asthma Control Test (ACT) is a widely used measure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a Portuguese-language version of the ACT for use in Brazil.
- To assess the psychometric properties of the translated ACT.
- To evaluate its utility in a Brazilian asthma patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- 290 adult asthma outpatients completed the Portuguese ACT and underwent clinical assessment over two visits.
- Spirometry was performed during the first visit.
- Test-retest reproducibility and responsiveness were evaluated.
Main Results:
- The Portuguese ACT demonstrated excellent discrimination between controlled and uncontrolled asthma (AUC 0.904).
- High sensitivity (93%) and specificity (74%) were observed for a cut-off score of 18.
- The questionnaire showed good test-retest reproducibility (ICC=0.93) and responsiveness.
Conclusions:
- The Portuguese ACT is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing asthma control in Brazil.
- It is suitable for patients with low education and income levels.
- The validated tool aids in monitoring asthma management in diverse Brazilian populations.
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