Invisibility of breathlessness in clinical consultations: a cross-sectional, national online survey

Breathlessness diminishes the physical, mental and social wellbeing of people living long-term with this disabling symptom[1]. Identifying its impacts on patients and their families helps to inform appropriate non-pharmacological and pharmacological management [2,3].A randomised controlled trial suggests that clinicians are less likely to identify or manage chronic breathlessness than chronic pain [4]. Previous population studies estimate 9.5% of adults experience breathlessness[5],with one in 100 individuals being seriously impacted daily [6].We conducted a population study aimed at identifying the proportion of people with breathlessness who report this symptom in clinical consultations. If discussed, we explored whether patients or clinicians (physicians; nurses) initiated the conversation and, if not discussed, whether patients would welcome such discussions.