Asthma Society reassures patients concerned by article.

The following letter to the editor of The Sunday Times , will be published in The Sunday times, 23rd of December in response to an article about asthma published on the 16th of December in The Sunday Times.

Sunday Times
Letter To The Editor

Thank you for highlighting the rising level of asthma in Ireland but the heading and contents of your article on December 16 incorrectly stated that the rise in asthma incidence may be due to misdiagnosis of the condition. It is our understanding that the low levels in the past may in part be accounted for by under diagnosis of the condition. 

Thanks to greater awareness of asthma as a major public health problem, the condition is now diagnosed and treated earlier.  Asthma prevalence in Ireland is the fourth highest in the world and is rising. While genetics are a causal factor for asthma, evidence suggests that environmental factors are one of the main causes for the increase in prevalence.

The Asthma Society also wishes to re-assure patients that the Seretide inhaler, mentioned in the article, is an effective treatment for asthma when used as appropriately prescribed.  Patients should not stop taking this medication as they would be at greater risk of an asthma attack than from any potential side effects. The risk benefit profile of all asthma medications is constantly under review by the Irish Medicines Board to ensure safety and our medical board advise the Asthma Society and its members when safety issues or concerns come to light in terms of asthma medications. We would advise that patients should continue to take their medicines as prescribed and discuss any concerns they may have with their doctor at their next asthma review.

Dr Jean Holohan
CEO

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