Psychosocial experience of living with severe and uncontrolled asthma as a young adult: a qualitative synthesis.

BACKGROUND

Living with severe and uncontrolled asthma can negatively impact on well-being, yet little is known about the psychosocial impact on young adults (age 12-25).

AIM

To identify, appraise and synthesise current literature pertaining to the psychosocial experience of living with severe and uncontrolled asthma as a young adult, to generate new knowledge, further conceptual understanding and provide recommendations to help improve long-term outcomes.

METHODS

We followed a predefined protocol, registered on PROSPERO. We systematically searched for qualitative research which captured the psychosocial impact of living with severe and uncontrolled asthma as a young adult. Using thematic synthesis, data was coded and developed into descriptive and analytical themes.

RESULTS

10 studies with 219 participants were identified and included in the synthesis. 73 codes were then developed into 17 descriptive themes, subsequently forming 5 analytical themes: 'Living with a constant uncertainty', 'The deleterious impact of asthma', 'Acquiescence', 'A need for support & understanding' and 'The constraints of living with asthma'.Young adults with severe and uncontrolled asthma live with a significant negative impact on their psychosocial well-being. Reported emotions described living with a burden of shame, embarrassment, anxiety, isolation, uncertainty, fear, conflict, lack of control, restriction on life choices and a perceived desire to be normal. These emotions influenced lifestyle choices and adherence to treatment, compounding on physical symptomology. This resulted in a cyclical interplay between the physical and psychological impact of living with severe and uncontrolled asthma.

CONCLUSION

There is clear evidence of a negative psychosocial impact of living with severe and uncontrolled asthma as a young adult. We have also highlighted the paucity of recent literature and provide the rationale for further research, to increase our understanding of the impact and support requirements of young adults with severe asthma to help improve long-term outcomes and quality of life.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42022363201.