Nonrespiratory Comorbidities in Asthma

Asthma is a chronic heterogeneous airway disease. Common comorbid conditions are often disproportionately present in severe asthma. Optimal care of patients with asthma requires the recognition and treatment of these comorbid conditions. This review outlines the pathophysiological mechanisms between nonrespiratory comorbid conditions and asthma and their effect on asthma outcomes. They include: type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, adrenal and thyroid gland diseases, pregnancy, osteoporosis, adverse effects from medications, and mental health disorders. Studies indicate how poor glycemic control of type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with not only greater health care utilization but poorer asthma outcomes. Also, a large health care claims database indicates that a substantial proportion of pregnant women have uncontrolled asthma and are prescribed suboptimal controller therapy. Additional data about these nonrespiratory comorbidities and medications known to benefit both nonrespiratory comorbidities and asthma are necessary. (C) 2021 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Automated summary

Asthma patients commonly have other comorbidities, and treating asthma requires attention to the recognition and treatment of these conditions. Poor glycemic control in type 2 diabetes has been associated with worse asthma outcomes, and a substantial proportion of pregnant women with asthma have uncontrolled symptoms. Additional data on nonrespiratory comorbidities and medications that benefit both these conditions and asthma are needed.