Objective: Internet addiction has recently become a prevalent health problem. Although many studies indicate a link between internet addiction and various diseases, no studies have examined its consequences on asthma control or medication adherence. The purpose of this study was to determine how internet addiction affects asthma control and medication adherence.

Materials and Methods: Study participants were grouped as asthmatics and healthy controls whom were aged between 18 and 77. Asthma control test (ACT) and medication adherence report scale (MARS-5) were fulfilled by asthma patients, whereas short version of Young Internet Addiction Test (s-IAT) was applied to all participants. Pulmonary function test was performed to all subjects.

Results: Forty-nine healthy volunteers and 54 asthmatic subjects were enrolled. Age and gender profiles within the study groups were similar. There was no significant difference in means of problematic and pathological (s-IAT ≥ 31) s-IAT scores between asthma and control groups (24.1% and 20.4%, p=0.41), as well as between asthma patients with controlled and uncontrolled ACT scores (24.1% and 24%, p=0.99), and those with and without medication adherence (16.7% and 27.8%, p=0.50). s-IAT scores were found to be linked to higher educational level (p=0.01, r=0.37), and better FEV₁ (p=0.04, r=0.27) in asthmatic patients. In addition, MARS-5 was correlated with older age (p=0.02, r=0.29), and low FEV₁ (p=0.01, r= -0.35).

Conclusion: Internet addiction did not seem to directly affect asthma control or medication adherence. However, it appeared to be associated with a high level of education and FEV₁.