UK 'WORST IN EUROPE FOR ASTHMA'

1.35.03pm GMT Thu 22nd Nov 2007

Asthma prevalence is thought to have doubled in the last ten years, with higher risk of occurrence in the UK than most European countries. While an estimated 30 million Europeans suffer from the disease, management of it is poor in many Member States according to a new report.

Liz Lynne MEP (Liberal Democrat, West Midlands region) launched the Centre for European Policy Studies report this week in Brussels, which highlighted that prevalence of asthma is over 18% in Scotland compared to 1.8% in Finland. Rates in England and Wales are almost as high as in Scotland.

Speaking after the launch, which was attended by leading asthma experts, including policymakers and academics, local Euro MP Liz said:

"The difference in asthma rates across the EU is truly shocking, and the fact the UK has the highest prevalence even more so. Every hour at least one person dies of asthma in Western Europe, 5.1m people currently suffer from asthma in the UK and there are still around 1400 UK deaths per year, most of which could be prevented with appropriate routine & emergency care.

"As an asthma sufferer myself, I feel that there is a real need to make sure that more information is made readily available to patients and that there is much more specialist training for health professionals.

"Patients must be empowered and expect more from their treatment, including an individualised treatment programme and more information on the effects of any drugs they are prescribed. Asthma is a systemic disease, influenced by the environment and its treatment and prevention requires a holistic approach not solely based on the prescription of medication.

"This report, along with the Brussels declaration launched earlier this year provide a strong basis for future action in this area and I hope the European Parliament, the European Commission, Member States and clinical bodies will take its recommendations on board. Policymakers must be aware that Asthma and allergies are becoming a public health concern across all EU Member States."