Physicians who introduce the 5 “Ps” framework—phenotypes, partnership, pharmacology, practice in acute exacerbations, and problems or barriers—may address the unmet needs of older patients with asthma with evidence-based guidelines, according to a study published in the Journal of Asthma and Allergy. Uncontrolled asthma in older patients is a pressing public health concern that poses challenges from both patient safety and economic standpoints. The absence of a standardized age cutoff for defining the older adults complicates epidemiologic studies, yet the socioeconomic impact remains undeniable. Jaskiran Khosa, MD, and colleagues suggest that asthma may stem from an uncontrolled disease or manifest due to overlapping conditions such as COPD, heart disease, obstructive sleep apnea, or diabetes mellitus. The authors present a framework that serves as a practical guide for healthcare providers navigating the complexities of asthma treatment, offering insights into managing symptoms, preventing exacerbations, and addressing unique challenges posed by comorbidities and age-related decline.
