Sub-optimal asthma treatment and symptom control in senior citizens with a diagnosis of asthma

Abstract

Rationale As the U.S. population ages, asthma in the elderly is an increasing problem. Several studies suggest that asthma is under-diagnosed and under-treated in elderly populations. Our study assesses asthma treatment and symptom control using National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines in a population of asthmatics 60 years and older. Methods A 75 question asthma specific survey was mailed to participants in the Aging Research Registry of Northwestern University's Buehler Center on Aging. Results Surveys were mailed to 171 registry members ages 60 and older who identified themselves as having asthma or allergies. One hundred and twelve (65%) responded to the survey, of which 35 (31%) reported a diagnosis of asthma. Only participants with a diagnosis of asthma were included in the study. The mean age of the respondents was 76 years of age. Eighty-three percent of the respondents were women, 17% were men, 89% were white, and 11% were black. Using NAEPP guidelines, 15 (43%) of the respondents had poorly controlled asthma based on nocturnal symptoms or frequent albuterol use. Of those with poor symptom control, 6 (40%) were not on an inhaled corticosteroid and 8 (53%) were not on a long acting beta agonist. Conclusions Our results suggest that 40% of senior citizens with asthma have poor symptom control. In addition, nearly half of seniors with poor symptom control do not appear to meet NAEEP treatment guidelines. These data are consistent with findings in children and younger adults who frequently have less than recommended treatment.