[Asthma Management and Control in Germany in Light of Current Guidelines].

BACKGROUND

Clinical studies and surveys indicate a significant need for improvement in asthma control, despite continuously advancing treatment options.

OBJECTIVE

To assess asthma control and patients' attitudes toward asthma therapy in Germany and to analyze the findings in the context of current guideline recommendations.

METHODS

Adults with asthma in Germany were recruited via the online panel forsa.omninet in November 2024 and surveyed regarding their asthma symptoms and management. Cross-correlation analyses were subsequently conducted. Asthma control was analyzed according to German guideline criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 1,002 adults with self-reported asthma participated in the survey. Asthma was not well controlled in 61% of respondents, especially the elderly of 60 years and older. 63% of respondents were on a daily maintenance therapy. However, patients on maintenance therapy reported poorer asthma control. A large number of respondents were unfamiliar with the terms "asthma control" and "asthma remission". 75% did not use any self-management tools. Only 47% believed that symptom-free asthma could be achieved through adequate maintenance therapy.

CONCLUSION

Asthma control in Germany remains inadequate. This survey confirms relevant discrepancies between guideline recommendations and clinical reality. Improved asthma management and patient education are urgently needed.