Key Takeaway
Buteyko breathing technique significantly improved asthma control and quality of life in adults with asthma compared to controls after 3 months of training.
Summary
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the Buteyko breathing technique (BBT) in 68 adult patients with partially controlled or uncontrolled asthma. Participants were assigned to either a BBT intervention group or a control group receiving standard asthma care.
The BBT group completed a structured training program over several weeks and was assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Primary outcomes included the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ).
Results showed that the BBT group had significantly improved asthma control scores and quality of life compared to controls at 3 months. Functional respiratory parameters also showed favorable trends. The improvements were clinically meaningful, with effect sizes reaching the minimal clinically important difference thresholds.
This study adds to the evidence base supporting Buteyko as a legitimate adjunctive therapy for asthma management, with the advantage of being a well-designed RCT with validated outcome measures and adequate follow-up.
Figures
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