A recent study has demonstrated that internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) can significantly alleviate asthma-related anxiety in adults. Participants who engaged in this innovative therapy reported improvements in their anxiety levels, asthma control, quality of life, and a decrease in avoidance behaviors compared to those receiving standard care.
The study involved a randomized controlled trial with 90 adults suffering from asthma and notable anxiety linked to their condition. Participants were assigned to either an eight-week ICBT program or standard care, which included access to general web-based medical information about asthma. The ICBT treatment comprised educational texts and exercises designed to help participants understand and manage their anxiety, along with regular feedback from a psychologist.
Participants receiving ICBT reported markedly lower levels of asthma-related anxiety, enhanced asthma control, and overall improved quality of life. They also exhibited fewer avoidance behaviors, such as refraining from physical activities or social engagements due to fear of asthma symptoms. Importantly, the treatment did not negatively impact lung function, indicating its safety as a complementary approach to traditional asthma management.
Professor Catarina Almqvist Malmros, from the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, emphasized the significance of addressing anxiety in asthma care. She noted, “Clinical and population-based studies consistently demonstrate a strong link between asthma and anxiety, highlighting the importance of offering treatment for asthma-related anxiety.” Her research underscores the necessity of integrating psychological support into asthma management protocols.
Anxiety affects as many as one-third of adults with asthma, often resulting in poorer health outcomes and diminished quality of life. Many individuals with asthma-related anxiety restrict their daily activities, potentially leading to long-term limitations. The findings of this study suggest that structured internet-based interventions can effectively address these concerns.
The lead author of the study, Marianne Bonnert, a psychologist at the Department of Clinical Neuroscience, remarked, “The study’s findings show that asthma-related anxiety can be treated through a structured and accessible intervention, which can not only improve quality of life and everyday confidence but also reduce the symptom burden of asthma.”
Looking to the future, researchers aim to investigate the efficacy of ICBT for children and adolescents experiencing asthma-related anxiety. A new study is already underway, focusing on adapting the therapy for young individuals aged 8-17 and their parents. The goal is to provide early intervention and support, preventing the development of long-term anxiety-related restrictions in their daily lives.
This research represents a collaborative effort between clinical psychologists and asthma specialists from Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, and Uppsala universitet. The study is financed by several reputable organizations, including Vetenskapsrådet (2023-02327), Hjärt-Lungfonden (20240974), and the Astma- och Allergiförbundets forskningsfond (2021-0012; 2024-0010).
The full study, titled “Online cognitive behaviour therapy for asthma-related anxiety: a randomised controlled trial,” will be published on January 6, 2026, in the journal Thorax. The findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the integration of mental health care in the treatment of chronic health conditions, fostering a holistic approach to patient well-being.
