What’s new in the Global Initiative for Asthma 2018 report and beyond

Abstract

Background

The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) has regularly published and annually updated a global strategy for asthma management and prevention that has formed the basis for many national guidelines. The 2018 update of the GINA report incorporates new evidence following the routine twice-yearly cumulative review of the literature by the GINA Scientific Committee.

Methods

Recommendations in the 2018 edition were examined for new content and updates, and the scientific evidence behind these recommendations was examined and discussed. Focus was given to the management of asthma in adults in the general population and children more than 5 years of age. Selected new studies related to the management of asthma that may affect future recommendations were also discussed.

Results and discussion

There have been updates in the assessment of asthma, the role of fractional exhaled nitric oxide, and the stepwise treatment of asthma. Key messages from previous versions of the guidelines were also reiterated and updated with new evidence supporting previous recommendations. Changes and new recommendations may be expected in future editions based on new scientific evidence which has emerged in the recent months.