Effectiveness of Biologic Therapies in Severe Asthma: Real-World Evidence from a Portuguese Local Health Unit

Abstract

Introduction: Severe asthma is associated with recurrent exacerbations, high healthcare utilization and impaired quality of life. Biologic therapies targeting type 2 inflammation have emerged as an effective therapeutic option for patients with uncontrolled disease.
Objective: To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of biologic therapies in patients with severe asthma followed in a specialized respiratory clinic. Methods: A retrospective longitudinal observational study was conducted. Patients were evaluated during the 12 months before and after initiation of biologic therapy. Clinical, functional and inflammatory outcomes were assessed. Results: Forty patients were included. Significant improvements were observed in ACT, CARAT, FEV1 and FeNO. Exacerbations, emergency department visits and hospital admissions were significantly reduced following biologic treatment. Conclusion: Biologic therapies demonstrated substantial clinical effectiveness in a real-world setting, improving disease control and reducing acute healthcare utilization.

Keywords: severe asthma, biologics, real-world evidence, ACT, FEV1, FeNO.