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More than Half of Those Surveyed Don't Understand Causes of Asthma Symptoms

Asthma is a highly controllable disease when proper prevention and long-term management of the underlying causes are followed. However, the survey reveals widespread misunderstanding about the causes of and treatments for asthma symptoms. The majority admitted they never heard of bronchoconstriction tightening of the muscles surrounding the airways (90%) or inflammation airway-swelling and irritation (93%) the two underlying causes of asthma symptoms.

Only 53% of those classified as having severe asthma and 63% of those with moderate asthma reported they or their children took prescription medication for daily maintenance therapy during the past four weeks (like an inhaled corticosteroid). Additionally, 30% of respondents incorrectly named a short-acting beta-agonist (an inhaler used for treating sudden asthma symptoms) as a long-term asthma control medicine. National treatment guidelines recommend daily use of an inhaled corticosteroid as the preferred therapy for people with persistent asthma.

Facilitating Parent/Child Discussions: Helpful Resource Available

To help encourage the dialogue between parents and their child about asthma symptoms, Asthma Action America is offering a free asthma brochure featuring tips from Dr. Sears and the Asthma Control TestTM, five questions parents should ask their child to help assess their child's level of asthma control. The brochure and more information about asthma in children are available at www.AsthmaActionAmerica.org or by calling 1-800-377-9575. Survey results can also
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Contact: Kathryn Ritzinger
kathryn_ritzinger@nyc.cohnwolfe.com
212-798-9829
Cohn & Wolfe
8-Dec-2004