Outcomes of Holistic Approach of Yoga as Integrative Medicine on Selected Parameters Among Asthma Patients

This study would be conducted for the partial fulfilment of the Ph.D study  at Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be  University), Chennai.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory disorder marked by episodes of breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing due to airway hyper-responsiveness. Despite medical advancements, long-term reliance on medications poses challenges, including side effects and poor adherence. Early adulthood aged 18–45 years is a crucial period where stress, sedentary lifestyles, and environmental triggers can exacerbate asthma symptoms, impacting overall well-being. Integrative approaches such as yoga have shown promise in improving lung function, reducing stress, and enhancing quality of life. However, research on its long-term impact of yoga on specific respiratory and psychological parameters remains limited. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of yoga as an integrative therapy for asthma management.

AIM

The purpose of the study is to investigate the outcomes of holistic approach of yoga as an integrative medicine on selected parameters in patients with asthma.

 METHODS AND DESIGN

This study is a two-armed randomized controlled trial examining the outcomes of yoga therapy in asthma patients. Participants will be selected based on Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA 2024) and National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP 2020) guidelines, focusing on individuals with intermittent to moderate persistent asthma. The study will include men and women aged 30 - 45 residing in and around Chennai. Participants will be fully informed about the study, and written consent will be obtained before data collection. Eligible participants will complete a structured questionnaire covering demographics, lifestyle, Body Mass Index (BMI), and other health-related factors. Stress levels and quality of life will be assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ). Medical histories will be reviewed through hospital records to gather additional clinical insights. A total of 80 participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: a yoga therapy group (n=40) and a control group (n=40). The yoga therapy group will receive structured yogic practices for four months, five days a week, with each session lasting 60 minutes. The control group will continue with their prescribed medication and lifestyle modifications as advised by their healthcare provider. Pre- and post-test assessments will be conducted for all outcome measures.