Ten years evolution of cluster-based asthma phenotypes

Abstract

Rationale: The long-term evolution of cluster-based asthma phenotypes remains poorly adressed although it is a key aspect to underpin the clinical relevance of this approach. Objectives: We aimed to estimate differences in asthma outcomes between cluster-based asthma phenotypes after 10 years of follow up. Methods: The study relies on two large cohorts, ECRHS (European Community Respiratory Health Survey) and EGEA (Epidemiological study on Genetics and Environment of Asthma). Latent Class Analysis (LCA) has previously identified 4 adult asthma phenotypes at EGEA2 and ECRHSII (Siroux V et al Eur Respir J 2011;38:310-7). Regression models were used to assess the asthma outcomes after 10 years (asthma activity, exacerbations, control (ACT), quality of life (AQLQ) and lung function) according to the LCA cluster membership at baseline. Results: The analysis included 1484 adults with ever asthma (45% men, mean±sd age=41.9±11.0 years). For each asthma characteristic studied, significant differences were observed between the asthma clusters (table1). There were no marked differences for the evolution of FEV1 between the 2 time points across the asthma phenotypes. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that cluster-based asthma phenotypes identify groups of individuals at risk of future poor health outcomes, and support the long-term consistency of these phenotypes. Supported by Agir Pour Les Maladies Chroniques.