Asthma

Asthma is one of the most common chronic non-communicable diseases worldwide and is characterised by variable airflow obstruction, causing dyspnoea and wheezing. Highly effective therapies are available; asthma morbidity and mortality have vastly improved in the past 15 years, and most patients can attain good asthma control. However, undertreatment is still common, and improving patient and health-care provider understanding of when and how to adjust treatment is crucial. Asthma management consists of a cycle of assessment of asthma control and risk factors and adjustment of medications accordingly. With the introduction of biological therapies, management of severe asthma has entered the precision medicine era-a shift that is driving clinical ambitions towards disease remission. Patients with severe asthma often have co-existing conditions contributing to their symptoms, mandating a multidimensional management approach. In this Seminar, we provide a clinically focused overview of asthma; epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management in children and adults.

Automated summary

Asthma is a common chronic non-communicable disease characterized by variable airflow obstruction. Effective therapies have significantly improved asthma morbidity and mortality, but undertreatment remains an issue. Understanding when and how to adjust treatment is crucial. With the advent of biological therapies, management has shifted towards precision medicine and remission. This article provides a clinically focused overview of asthma in children and adults, including epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management.