A lifestyle educational course as an adjunct to biologic administration in patients with severe asthma: A feasibility study.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility and acceptability of adapting a psychoeducation course (Body Reprogramming) for severe asthma and finding suggestions for improvement.

METHODS

Severe asthma patients were recruited from a single centre and enrolled in an online group-based course. Each course consisted of four sessions: introduction to BR, stress, exercise, and diet. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires assessing HRQoL, mood, asthma and extra-pulmonary symptoms, pre/post course. Those who attended two or more sessions were invited to provide feedback in interviews.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight participants took part in one of the five courses. Thirteen (46 %) attended all four sessions and were sent post-course questionnaires, eight participants (62 %) returned them. Twelve participants provided post course feedback, Themes included: The course as a time to reflect, Appreciation of the group-format, Impact of pre-existing knowledge on enjoyment of the course and Areas of improvement. Maintaining course size, clarification of the course aims and methods were identified as areas of improvement by participants.

CONCLUSION

An educational course focused on managing extra-pulmonary symptoms is feasible and of perceived benefit to patients with severe asthma.

INNOVATION

BR could be incorporated into a rehab programme for patients with severe asthma with significant extrapulmonary symptoms.