Factors associated with poor asthma symptom control in adult Angolan regularly seen at an outpatient respiratory clinic

Abstract

Background: Asthma is one of the most common chronic respiratory diseases and one of the most frequent causes of hospitalcare. Objectives: To describe the clinical characteristics of asthma and factors associated with its control. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Military Hospital in Luanda, from April 2018 to March 2019. Data collectionwas performed using questionnaires on asthma symptoms and treatment, socio-demographic and environmental questions,and a Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) questionnaire to assess the level of asthma control. Ordinal logistic regressionanalyses were performed. We estimated odds ratios, for higher categories of asthma control. P<0.05 was considered significant. Results: The sample consisted of 305 asthmatics ≥18-years-old, 56% women, with a mean age of 41.3 years. About 28% ofpatients had controlled asthma, 36% partially controlled and 35% uncontrolled. Poor asthma control was associated with frequentuse of short-acting beta-2 agonists [OR 5.70 (95%CI 2.37;13.7)], oral corticosteroids [OR 3.68 (95%CI 2.24;6.04)], andincorrect inhaler technique [OR 4.08 (95%CI 1.25;13.3)]. Conclusions: A significant number of adults living in Luanda have uncontrolled asthma due to the under-use of inhaled corticosteroidtherapy. It is necessary to develop strategic management and prevention plans to improve Angolan asthmatics' medicalcare. Keywords: Asthma; Angola; symptom control; inhalers.