Lead author Dr. Maria Britto of Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center observed 74 percent of the adolescents in their study dramatically overestimated their ability to control their asthma when compared to the teens' own reports of symptoms, use of medication and limitation of activities.

"We've known that adolescent asthma patients tend to have poorer outcomes than younger children with the condition, and this study shows that teens tend to think they're in control when they may be having difficulty," Britto said in a statement.

The study included 201 adolescents with an average age of 16.2 years who were observed during clinical visits. The findings suggest that adolescents' perception of being in control may impact whether or not they follow treatment regimens and avoid situations that trigger their condition.

"For those of us who treat teens with asthma, these findings will help us address with patients their perceived control versus what is actually going on," Britto said.

The study is scheduled to be presented at the annual meeting of the Pediatric Academic Society in Honolulu Sunday.

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