Comment: ‘Disturbing’ asthma death rate must be addressed

Responding to reports asthma deaths are at an all-time high, Senior Solicitor, Richard Allbeson asks why better care has not been actioned?

According to the ONS, more than 1,400 people died from an asthma attack last year. An alarming 8% increase on 2017.

Furthermore, the overall death rate has risen by almost 1/3 in the last decade.

Because of this, Richard targets his frustrations on the lack of urgency in addressing this trend.

What concerns me is the fact five years ago, The National Review of Asthma Deaths said two thirds of deaths would not happen with better care. However, out of the 19 recommendations made in the review, only one has been partially implemented. This is particularly disturbing.

Asthma UK officials have announced 60% of asthma sufferers across England and Wales still do not receive basic care.

Consequently, Richard hopes the Government will now listen to the charity’s latest call for Acton.

Kay Boycott, Chief Executive of Asthma UK told the Pharmaceutical Journal.

The NHS must act now to ensure that everyone with asthma in England and Wales gets basic asthma care, which includes a yearly review with their GP or asthma nurse, a check to ensure they are using their inhaler properly and a written asthma action plan

For more information on the latest statistics on Asthma deaths, visit: www.asthma.org.uk/about/media/newsasthma-deaths-2017/