Biologic therapy: A beacon of hope for severe asthma patients in Hong Kong

Biologic therapy is revolutionizing the treatment landscape for severe asthma, offering renewed hope for patients struggling to control their condition with conventional medications.

According to Kwok Wang-chun, a clinical assistant professor at the University of Hong Kong’s Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, biologic products like Interleukin-5 can effectively halt inflammatory responses, alleviating the narrowing of airways.

He notes that these therapies can enhance lung function and significantly reduce the risk of asthma attacks.

Despite these advancements, only 13.6 percent of adults with severe asthma in Hong Kong are currently utilizing these innovative treatments, a concerning statistic highlighted by Kwok.

Common triggers for asthma attacks, such as allergens and cold air, can exacerbate the condition, leading to a decline in lung function if left unmanaged.

Take Betty, for example, a patient whose life has dramatically improved since beginning biologic therapy.

Previously plagued by persistent daytime coughing that interrupted her daily life and sleep -- even after exhausting traditional treatments like inhalers and oral steroids -- Betty described her coughing as akin to those experienced by tuberculosis patients, illustrating the severity of her condition.

Asthma treatments generally fall into two categories: T2-high and T2-low asthma. While traditional methods primarily employ inhaled steroids and bronchodilators, these may not suffice for all patients, who often continue to suffer despite adhering to their medication plans.

Fortunately, recent advancements in biologic therapies specifically target antibodies that trigger inflammatory responses.

This innovation not only alleviates airway constriction but also enhances lung function and decreases both the frequency of asthma attacks and hospital visits.

Chan Wing-kai, chairman of the Hong Kong Asthma Society, underscores the importance of proactive asthma management.

He urges patients to closely monitor their symptoms and identify potential triggers, while also stressing the necessity of adhering to healthcare professionals' guidance and avoiding any unauthorized changes to medication dosages or schedules.

(Cheng Wong)