The Effect of a Theory of Planned Behavior Education Program on Asthma Control and Medication Adherence: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND: Disease management in individuals with asthma is affected by factors such as avoiding triggers that cause attacks and properly using inhaler devices. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of a theory of planned behavior (TPB) education program on asthma control and medication adherence. METHODS: A randomized controlled trial enrolled 30 participants in the intervention group and 30 in the control group. The educational approach was employed in participants in the intervention group for five home visits over 3 months according to the TPB program. RESULTS: Before the education program, all participants in the intervention group and 90% of those in the control group had poorly controlled asthma (P > .05). After the program, all individuals in the intervention group and 20% of the control group had well-controlled asthma (P < .001). There was no statistically significant difference between Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 pretest scores in the intervention and control groups in terms of medication adherence (2.37 - 1.75 and 3.13 1.71, respectively; P > .05). Mean Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 scores in the intervention group at posttest (7.50 - 3.93 - 2.03; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that asthma control and medication adherence increased in the intervention group after the TPB education program. The program was effective in asthma control and medication adherence for individuals with asthma. (C) 2021 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology