OBJECTIVE: to collect information on knowledge of asthma by patients (pts), on its management and outcomes. METHODS: multi-center, cross-sectional survey. Pts were administered a questionnaire derived from the one used in the survey “Asthma Insights & Reality in Europe” (A.I.R.E.). The questionnaire was adapted for administration during a visit, instead of by phone as done during A.I.R.E. RESULTS: during the second half of 2000, 105 pneumologists administered the questionnaire to 1017 asthmatic pts (972 fully evaluable). Urban population represented 53% of the sample, males were 44%, mean age was 44 years, and 35% suffered from seasonal asthma. Relatives suffering from asthma were reported by 39% of pts. Most of pts (80%) believed that the number of Italian asthmatics had increased during the last decade. Those who rated their health status as at least good were 60%. Fifty three percent thought that their asthma was better today than 10 years ago. During the last 12 months, severe symptoms were reported by 44% of patients, 11% of pts spent at least one night in hospital, 16% reported accessing an emergency department, and 34% had an unscheduled visit. During the last 4 weeks asthma was reported as very good/good by 53%. In the same time, 72% of pts reported symptoms of various severity, and 40% of pts had night awakening. The peak flow meter was known by 54% of pts. Thirty two percent of pts owned one, but more than 50% of pts did not use it or use it only when symptoms appeared. Half of pts underwent lung functionality tests during last 12 months. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that asthma management does not usually fit the GINA guidelines. Health status reported by pts does not always correspond with symptom severity assessed by doctors. The hospitalization rate and unscheduled visits due to asthma seem to be higher than expected.