A recent study reveals that internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) effectively alleviates asthma-related anxiety in adults with asthma. Participants who engaged in ICBT reported significant reductions in anxiety linked to their condition, improved asthma control, a higher quality of life, and fewer avoidance behaviours when compared to those receiving standard care.
The research, conducted by a team at Karolinska Institutet and Uppsala University, included a sample of 90 adults with asthma and pronounced anxiety related to their condition. Participants were divided into two groups, with one receiving eight weeks of ICBT and the other receiving standard care that provided access to online medical information about asthma. The ICBT programme consisted of structured texts and exercises aimed at helping individuals understand and manage their anxiety. Regular feedback from a psychologist was also provided throughout the treatment process.
Professor Catarina Almqvist Malmros, who leads the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, emphasized the strong correlation between asthma and anxiety. She stated, “Clinical and population-based studies consistently demonstrate a strong link between asthma and anxiety, highlighting the importance of offering treatment for asthma-related anxiety.”
The results were telling. Those who participated in the ICBT reported notably less anxiety regarding their asthma, improved control over their symptoms, and a better overall quality of life. Notably, lung function remained unchanged throughout the treatment, suggesting that ICBT is a safe complement to traditional medical treatments for asthma.
Marianne Bonnert, the first author and 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.”
Anxiety affects approximately one-third of adults with asthma, often leading to poorer health outcomes and diminished quality of life. Many individuals with asthma-related anxiety limit their daily activities out of fear of experiencing symptoms. This avoidance behaviour can include steering clear of physical exertion, social interactions, or even travel, which are significant aspects of daily living.
Despite the severe impact of anxiety on asthma management, it is frequently overlooked in standard asthma care. The researchers have initiated plans to extend their findings to children and adolescents faced with asthma-related anxiety. A new study is currently in development, adapting the ICBT treatment for young people aged 8-17 and their parents. The objective is to provide early intervention and support to prevent the development of long-term limitations in daily activities due to anxiety and avoidance behaviours.
The research represents a collaborative effort among clinical psychologists and asthma specialists, supported by funding from several esteemed organizations, including Vetenskapsrådet, Hjärtlungfonden, and Astma- och Allergiförbundets forskningsfond. The findings were published in the journal Thorax on January 6, 2026, under the title “Online cognitive behaviour therapy for asthma-related anxiety: a randomised controlled trial,” authored by Marianne Bonnert and her colleagues.
As researchers continue to explore the potential of ICBT for different age groups, the goal remains to provide more accessible and age-appropriate psychological treatment as a standard component of asthma care.
