Asthma

World Asthma Day

New Research Reveals High Awareness of Environmental Factors but Poor Knowledge of Asthma Symptoms

World Asthma Day - Tuesday 6 May 2008

World Asthma Day took place on Tuesday 6 May 2008 and the Asthma Society of Ireland is highlighting the impact that the environment can have on Ireland's 470,000 people with asthma.  New research conducted by the Asthma Society of Ireland has demonstrated that the Irish population is largely aware of the potential risks associated with environmental factors with 94% of respondents able to identify occupation related factors such as exposure to dust and chemicals, 93% cited smoking and 84% citing aerosols in the home. Despite this, the research also showed that there is very low awareness of the symptoms of asthma with only 24% of the general public being able to identify wheezing and only 22% able to identify persistent coughing as asthma symptoms.

This research highlights a need for greater awareness of the signs and symptoms of asthma as well as a commitment by people living with asthma to take their environment, both indoor and outdoor, seriously in order to help keep symptoms controlled.

The Asthma Society of Ireland offers the following environmental advice to people with asthma, particularly during the Summer months when symptoms can be exacerbated due to air allergens and air pollutants.
  • Beware of weather conditions that may aggravate asthma such as temperature changes, humidity and strong winds.
  • Avoid areas with freshly cut grass.
  • Check the pollen forecast on www.asthmasociety.ie, especially if you suffer from hay fever
  • Avoid environmental tobacco smoke which can induce asthma symptoms.
  • Use a damp cloth when dusting.
  • Vacuum regularly
  • Beware of using aerosols (cleaning products, cosmetics, pesticides) and chemicals such as weed killers.
  • If you are sensitive to outdoor allergens and you have been out walking/gardening, shower, wash your hair and change your clothes when you get back

Asthma symptoms include difficulty in breathing, a tight feeling in the chest, wheezing and prolonged coughing.  If you are experiencing these symptoms more than twice a week, or are using a reliever inhaler more than twice a week, your asthma may not be controlled.  Contact your GP for advice or the Asthma Society of Ireland on 1850 44 54 64 or visit www.asthmasociety.ie for further information.

RTE rugby analyst Brent Pope, a childhood asthma sufferer, commented on the launch of World Asthma Day, "I am delighted to be lending my support to World Asthma Day to help draw attention to the impact that our environment has on people living with asthma.  For many, the Summer can prove to be a very difficult time of the year to manage symptoms however, through correct management you can overcome them and enjoy the Summer months without suffering."

Dr Patrick Manning, Consultant Respiratory Physician and Chairperson of the Medical Committee of the Asthma Society of Ireland said, "This World Asthma Day we are calling on Ireland's 470,000 people living with asthma to consider their indoor and outdoor environment in terms of their overall asthma management. Small changes to your home and office environment, for example, reducing exposure to air fresheners and fly sprays can impact hugely on the level of symptoms experienced.  In addition, it is critical that you are using your medication correctly and that your inhaler technique is accurate to ensure that you achieve maximum control of your asthma.  Well controlled asthma will be less sensitive to environmental triggers so remember to take your medications, especially preventer/controller medications as prescribed.  If you would like further information on any of these subjects, contact the Asthma Society of Ireland on 1850 44 54 64 or visit www.asthmasociety.ie."

To mark World Asthma Day, the Asthma Society of Ireland held a free public information meeting in Dublin on the evening of Tuesday 6 May. The meeting addressed three topics: Asthma and Your Environment, Asthma, Allergy and Diet, and Top Tips for Asthma Control with expert speakers presenting on each topic. Asthma nurse specialists were also available at information stands to give practical advice on a range of asthma-related issues including allergy advice, inhaler technique, spirometry and peak flow testing. The meeting was held in the Davenport Hotel, Merrion Square, Dublin 2. Tickets for the meeting were free of charge.