Asthma Awareness Week

As Asthma Awareness Week finishes, another NZer will have died from asthma

Asthma Foundation

23 May 2012

Balloon Day is Friday, 24 May - What is 52?

Asthma Awareness Week is the 20-26 May,

What is 52? In New Zealand at least 52 people will die from asthma this year.

The Asthma Foundation has launched a hard-hitting campaign for Asthma Awareness Week and Balloon Day. “We want people to realise just how serious asthma can be,” said Angela Francis, chief executive of the Asthma Foundation.

“People are surprised to learn that asthma can kill – many people regard asthma as a mild disease that causes the odd episode of wheezy breathing,” says Dr Kyle Perrin, medical adviser at the Asthma Foundation. Asthma caused 79 deaths in 2006, 61 in 2007 and 65 in 2008, and University of Otago figures confirm it was also responsible for 8,000 hospital admissions in 2011.

While the prevalence of asthma is similar for Māori and non-Māori children, Māori children with asthma tend to have more severe symptoms, require hospitalisation for asthma almost twice as often as non-Māori children, and require more time off school because of asthma.

Dr Perrin recommends parents consider getting a child asthma management plan completed with a health professional. “The plan is designed to help parents manage their child’s asthma and recognise when it is deteriorating before it becomes an emergency. Parents should also ensure children continue using their medication as prescribed to keep their asthma under control at all times.”

“Over 52 deaths a year from asthma is too many. The Asthma Foundation is focusing on prevention. To support this we need your help to fund research into treatments and educate on best practice,” said Angela.

To support the Asthma Foundation text PUFF to 469 to donate $3, call 0900 4 ASTHMA (0900 4 278 462) to donate $20 or visit www.asthmafoundation.org.nz.
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