Clinical, Phenotypical and Epidemiological Analysis of Asthma in the West of Santa Catarina, Brazil

Abstract

Background: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that predisposes to dyspnea, chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing. Geographical variations, pollution, allergen exposure, smoking and climate change interfere with the morbidity and mortality of the disease.  Objective: Analyze the clinical, phenotypical, and epidemiological profile of asthmatic patients in Western Santa Catarina, Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted at a specialized Pulmonology clinic in Chapecó, SC. The selection singled out patients that had ages between 18 and 70 and had consultations within October 2023 and March 2024. The Asthma Control Test was applied, and after obtaining authorization, access to medical records was granted. Data on sex, age, place of birth, comorbidities, smoking habits, ACT score, inhaled corticosteroid use and its doses, serum IgE and eosinophils, as well as the initial date of follow-up and diagnosis, were collected. The data was organized in an Excel spreadsheet and analyzed using the SPSS platform. The research was approved by the Ethics Committee under opinion n° 6.598.780. Results: A total of 92 patients were analyzed, predominantly women from the Chapecó microregion, with an average age of 48.8 years. IgE and eosinophil levels were higher in the eosinophilic phenotype and in patients with thyroid disorders. Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea/Hipopnea Syndrome showed elevated eosinophil counts, while higher IgE levels were observed in obese patients. Asthma was controlled in 47 patients (51.08%), partially controlled in 28 (30.04%), and uncontrolled in 17 (18.47%). Only 1 patient reported being a smoker. Conclusions: This study reinforces previous research, demonstrating that asthma was controlled in about 50% of the participants. The epidemiological profile highlighted a middle-aged population, with a predominance of women. These results contribute to improving disease management and the development of health strategies for local physicians.