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Updated: May 10, 2026

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 4, 2010
[Medication adherence in asthma therapy--a structured review]
J Fischer1, A Wimmer, J Mahlich
1Med. Klinik I, Abt. Pneumologie & Schlafmedizinisches Zentrum, Krankenhaus Landshut-Achdorf, Landshut, Germany. juergen.fischer@kh-landshut-achdorf.de
Background:
The adherence level of Asthma therapy is low. We provide a literature overview about the determinants of adherence in asthma therapy, and potential options that lead to an improvement of adherence. We also discuss cost issues of poor adherence.
Methods:
A systematic literature search was conducted and 53 articles were identified.
Results:
The most prominent driving factors of adherence are patient beliefs, comorbidities, physician-patient relationship, and medication regimen. The cost effectiveness of adherence improving measures has yet to be shown.
Conclusion:
As asthma control is primarily depended on adherence, cost effective adherence programs need to be developed that respond to patients' individual needs.
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