Prevalence of bronchial asthma among adults in Saudi Arabia: a systematic review and meta-analysis (2010–2025)

Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease and a major global public health concern. Although numerous studies have reported asthma prevalence, evidence focusing specifically on adult populations in Saudi Arabia remains limited and fragmented. This study aimed to systematically review available evidence and estimate the pooled prevalence of bronchial asthma among adults in Saudi Arabia. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) were searched for studies published between 2010 and 2025. Observational studies reporting asthma prevalence among adults (≥ 18 years) in Saudi Arabia were included. Study selection involved title and abstract screening followed by full-text assessment. Data were extracted using a standardized form, and methodological quality was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. A random-effects meta-analysis with Freeman–Tukey transformation was performed using JASP software. A total of 1,280 records were identified, of which twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. All included studies were cross-sectional and conducted across national and regional settings. The pooled prevalence of bronchial asthma among adults in Saudi Arabia was 12.9% (95% CI: 8.8%–17.6%), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 99.1%, p < 0.001). Prevalence estimates varied widely across studies due to differences in study design, sampling strategies, and asthma definitions. Bronchial asthma represents a significant public health burden among adults in Saudi Arabia. The high heterogeneity highlights the need for standardized epidemiological methods and improved surveillance. Strengthening prevention, early diagnosis, and disease management strategies is essential to reduce the burden of asthma and improve population health outcomes.