Interpersonal psychological factors and asthma outcomes in romantic relationships: a systematic review.
Liuyu Wei, Rebecca Band, Judit Varkonyi-Sepp et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review examined associations between interpersonal factors in romantic relationships and asthma outcomes in adults with asthma. Searches across five databases and manual citation screening identified seven studies involving 680 dyads; findings were synthesised narratively. Better physical health, asthma-related quality of life, and lower healthcare use were associated with partners’ lower psychological distress and perceptions of better patient self-management. Asthma symptom severity was positively associated with better marital functioning and greater relationship satisfaction. The authors concluded that interpersonal factors may matter for asthma outcomes but remain understudied.
Key findings
- The review included seven studies comprising 680 dyads.
- Better physical health and asthma-related quality of life, and lower healthcare use, were associated with partners’ lower psychological distress and perceptions of better patient self-management.
- Asthma symptom severity was positively associated with better marital functioning and higher relationship satisfaction.
Why it matters
Asthma outcomes may be associated not only with patients’ own psychological factors but also with partners’ distress, perceptions, and relationship dynamics. Considering these interpersonal associations can broaden understanding of the context in which asthma is managed, while the limited evidence base underscores the need for further dyadic research.
What to keep in mind
Only seven studies were included, and findings were narratively synthesised; the reported associations do not establish causation.