New Delhi: A recent report has underscored the pressing need for enhanced diagnostic tools and targeted therapies to bridge the gap in care for patients with severe asthma, particularly those with T-helper cell type 2 (T2)-low asthma. This subtype, which lacks typical inflammatory biomarkers, remains a challenge in both diagnosis and treatment.
T2-low asthma is characterized by the absence of eosinophils and immunoglobulin E (IgE), key biomarkers that are central to identifying and managing other asthma subtypes. Current treatments predominantly address eosinophilic and allergic inflammation, leaving those with non-eosinophilic or neutrophilic asthma without effective therapeutic options.
The report by GlobalData, a leading data and analytics firm, highlights the significant progress made in treating T2-high asthma through biologic therapies. However, it emphasizes that T2-low asthma remains largely under-researched and underserved.
“The treatment landscape for severe asthma has advanced considerably, particularly for T2-high asthma. However, T2-low asthma patients are still neglected. There is a critical need for reliable biomarkers and targeted therapies for this subgroup,” said Sravani Meka, Senior Pharmaceutical Analyst at GlobalData.
Meka also stressed the importance of improving diagnostic tools to distinguish T2-low asthma from other forms. Misdiagnosis of T2-low asthma as T2-high can delay treatment and result in inadequate care.
The report also pointed to broader challenges in asthma management. Despite the availability of biologics, many patients face difficulties with proper inhaler technique, high medication costs, and inconsistent use, which often leads to poor asthma control. Patient education on inhaler use and better access to treatments are crucial for achieving optimal outcomes.
Meka called for a focused approach to address these gaps, advocating for investment in diagnostics, development of targeted therapies, and improved healthcare access. “Only through concerted efforts can we address the unmet needs of T2-low asthma patients and ensure comprehensive asthma care for all,” she stated.
The report calls for immediate action to enhance asthma management strategies and improve the quality of life for patients across all asthma subtypes.