Continuing discrepancy between patient perception of asthma control and real-world symptoms: a quantitative online survey of 1,083 adults with asthma from the UK

Background: Previous studies have identified a discrepancy between patient perception of asthma control and real-world symptoms; despite several hypotheses, the reasons remain unclear. Aims: To explore patients' experiences of asthma symptoms and disease management and their educational needs in the UK; to assess recent progress in asthma control and management. Methods: A quantitative questionnaire-based online survey of UK patients aged >= 18 years with self-reported asthma. Results: Of the 1,083 individuals (55% female, 49% aged >= 55 years) who completed the survey, 79% described their asthma control as 'good' or 'very good'. Despite this, in the previous 2 years, 65% had experienced 'frequent' day-time symptoms, 37% had 'frequent' night-time symptoms, and 25% had used oral steroids for asthma; 41% of those prescribed a reliever inhaler used it >= 1 a day. Overall, 76% had a 'good' or 'very good' relationship with their healthcare professional (HCP); 32% had not attended regular asthma reviews and only 12% were using a personal asthma action plan. Moreover, 70% of respondents felt that they had the 'main responsibility' for managing their asthma; 29% believed this responsibility to be shared with their HCP. Conclusions: This survey indicates a continuing discrepancy between patient perception of asthma control and real-world symptoms, with little change from previous studies. Many patients accept symptoms as the norm. The diversity among respondents' attitudes demonstrates a need to help patients change some of their beliefs and understanding about asthma, and to improve asthma management with better education about the understanding of control for patients and HCPs. (C) 2013 Primary Care Respiratory Society UK. All rights reserved.