ADVANCES IN TREATMENT OF ASTHMA AMONG ADULTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Abstract
Background: Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that significantly impacts the quality of life of millions of adults worldwide. Recent advancements in the treatment of asthma, including new medications, biologic therapies, inhalation devices, and management strategies, have the potential to enhance asthma control and reduce exacerbations. This systematic review aims to evaluate these advancements, focusing on their effectiveness, safety, and impact on patient outcomes.
Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science, for studies published from 2010 onwards. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, case-control studies, and systematic reviews assessing the effectiveness and safety of innovative asthma treatments. Studies involving non-human subjects or pediatric populations were excluded. Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers, and meta-analysis was conducted where applicable.
Results: The review identified several advancements in asthma treatment, including the introduction of biologic therapies such as monoclonal antibodies targeting specific inflammatory pathways, inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta-agonist (ICS/LABA) combination therapies, and the shift toward personalized treatment plans. Biologic therapies demonstrated significant improvements in reducing asthma exacerbations and improving lung function for severe asthma patients. However, challenges such as high costs and limited accessibility were noted. The review also highlighted the importance of patient adherence to treatment regimens and proper inhaler technique in managing asthma effectively.
Conclusion: Recent advancements in asthma treatment, particularly biologics and personalized management strategies, have shown promising improvements in asthma control and quality of life. Despite these advancements, accessibility, adherence issues, and treatment costs remain significant barriers to optimal asthma management. A holistic, individualized approach to asthma care, integrating pharmacological interventions with patient education, is essential for achieving long-term control and improving patient outcomes.
