Aims

To study asthma control and acute health care visits among young adults with asthma.

Background

Despite the access to effective treatment and nursing interventions, poor asthma control is still common among individuals with asthma. However, studies describing clinical characteristics among young adults with asthma are rare.

Design

A population‐based cohort study.

Methods

In 2015, as a part of the OLIN pediatric cohort I (recruited in 1996 at age 7‐8yr), N=2291 young adults (27‐28 yr) completed a postal questionnaire survey including questions on asthma and respiratory symptoms. Of these, N=280 (12%) were identified as having current asthma and were further studied.

Results

Of those with current asthma, women reported respiratory symptoms and smoking to a greater extent than men. Approximately one‐fourth had uncontrolled asthma and acute health care visits due to asthma was reported by 15% of women and 8% of men. Uncontrolled asthma was associated with smoking, lower educational level, use of reliever treatment most days and acute health care visits. Acute health care visits due to asthma were associated with periodic use of regular controller treatment also after adjustment for uncontrolled asthma.

Conclusion

The result indicate poor adherence to asthma treatment which may lead to decreased asthma control and acute health care visits.

Impact

Most young adults with asthma are diagnosed and treated in primary care, ideally in a team with a nurse. The main findings highlight the need for evidenced‐based nursing interventions, contributing to a more efficient asthma management in primary care.