The Saudi Initiative for Asthma - 2021 Update: Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of asthma in adults and children

Abstract

The Saudi Initiative for Asthma 2021 (SINA-2021) is the fifth version of asthma guidelines for the diagnosis and management of asthma for adults and children, which is developed by the SINA group, a subsidiary of the Saudi Thoracic Society. The main objective of the SINA is to have guidelines that are up to date, simple to understand, and easy to use by healthcare workers dealing with asthma patients. To facilitate achieving the goals of asthma management, the SINA panel approach is mainly based on the assessment of symptom control and risk for both adults and children. The approach to asthma management is aligned for age groups: adults, adolescents, children aged 5-12 years, and children aged less than 5 years. SINA guidelines have focused more on personalized approaches reflecting better understanding of disease heterogeneity with the integration of recommendations related to biologic agents, evidence-based updates on treatment, and the role of immunotherapy in management. Medication appendix has also been updated with the addition of recent evidence, new indications for existing medication, and new medications. The guidelines are constructed based on the available evidence, local literature, and the current situation at national and regional levels. There is also an emphasis on patient-doctor partnership in the management that also includes a self-management plan.

Keywords: Asthma; Saudi Arabia; asthma control test; guidelines.

Box 2.1

Immunopathology of asthma

Box 4.1

Global Initiative for Asthma assessment of asthma control in adults and adolescents

Box 4.2

Asthma control test

Box 6.1

Initiation of asthma treatment for adults and adolescents

Box 6.2

Outpatient asthma treatment for adults and adolescents

Box 7.3

Initial management of acute asthma for adults and adolescents

Box 7.4

Adjustment of acute asthma treatment for adults and adolescents

Box 9.5

The childhood asthma control test

Box 9.6

The test for respiratory and asthma control in kids

Box 9.10

Outpatient management of asthma for children aged 5–12 years

Box 9.11

Outpatient management of asthma for children aged <5 years

Box 10.3

Assessment and treatment of acute asthma in children