Sesonal variations of severe asthma exacerbations in the US

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Background: Having a good understanding of the characteristics of asthma exacerbations can help to minimize the risk of this event. Objectives: To evaluate seasonal variations of severe asthma exacerbations in US by age, gender and region. Methods: Observational study utilizing administrative claims data for commercially-insured individuals from the HealthCore Integrated Research Environment. Patients were 6 years or older, with at least one ICD-9 diagnoses (dx) for asthma and at least one prescription fill for an asthma medication during the 12 months prior to and including the month of interest. Severe asthma exacerbation was inpatient hospitalization admission with primary dx for asthma; or emergency room admission with a dx for asthma; or pharmacy claim for an oral corticosteroid medication. Results: Slightly fewer than one million asthma patients were identified for each calendar month for the years 2007 through 2010 combined. On average, 6.7% of patients had an asthma exacerbation during a given month. The highest rates were found in October to March, and the lowest in July and August, in each year. The rates increased by age, were higher in women than men age 18-64, and in the Southeast and Central regions of US. Conclusions: The results of this study provide real world data regarding asthma patients with exacerbations, serving as the foundation for future clinical trials and observational studies.

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