Box 5.1.

Long-term goals of asthma management

Control asthma symptoms (cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath)

Infrequent and minimal use (≤2 days a week) of the reliever therapy

Maintain (near) normal pulmonary function

Maintain normal level of exercise and physical activity

Prevent asthma attacks and minimize the need for emergency department visits or hospitalizations

Optimize asthma control with the lowest possible dose of medications

Improve quality of life and reduce the risk of adverse outcomes

Reduce mortality