The Burden of Severe Asthma in Sub-Saharan Africa: Findings from the African Severe Asthma Project

•What is already known on this topic? The prevalence of severe asthma among known asthmatic patients ranges from 3-10% in different studies. Severe asthma can be responsible for up to 50% of the total asthma-related health care costs.•What does this article add to our knowledge? Before this study, prevalence, burden and characteristics of severe asthma in Africa were not known. This study demonstrates a burden of severe asthma (25.6%) in sub-Sharan Africa, higher than reported elsewhere.•How does this study impact current management guidelines? This study underscores the need for investments in improving access to effective medications for severe asthma and asthma in general.