Knowledge, perceptions, facilitators, and barriers towards asthma self-management among patients: A systematic review of the literature

BACKGROUND: Asthma self-management is an effective approach that empowers patients with asthma to control their condition and reduce its impact on their daily lives.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aims to synthesize evidence regarding the knowledge, perceptions, facilitators, and barriers related to asthma self-management among patients.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted across five databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) using specific key terms. Studies that reported knowledge, perceptions, facilitators and barriers towards asthma self-management were included. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed to report this review. All the data from included studies were analyzed through narrative synthesis approach.

RESULTS: A total of 17 studies were included in this review. The findings indicated that most patients had inadequate knowledge of asthma self-management, particularly regarding asthma fundamentals, and inhaler techniques. Patients' cultural beliefs, and perceived social stigma influenced their self-management practices. Facilitators of asthma self-management included strong partnerships with healthcare providers, social support, access to medication, and having a written asthma action plan. Conversely, poor communication with healthcare professionals, travel, smoking, and workplace challenges were identified as barriers.

CONCLUSION: There is a pressing need for education and training programs to enhance understanding of the disease, and inhaler technique in patients with asthma. Healthcare professionals should create tailored asthma action plans according to patients' beliefs and needs. Moreover, healthcare policies should be developed to promote facilitators and address barriers, to ensure effective asthma management.