Vol. 434 No. 4
177 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Health if there has been an increase in diagnosed asthma in the State between the years 1970, 1980 and 1990; if so, the rate of such increase; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Asthma is not a notifiable disease and most cases are treated by general practitioners rather then in hospital. Detailed information on the number of people suffering from the condition is therefore not available. In addition it is difficult to determine a precise medical definition of asthma; the term can cover a range of respiratory diseases, including bronchitis.
The Health Research Board is currently funding a three-year study of asthma as part of an EC concerted action programme. The Irish element of the project is examining the prevalence of the risk factors associated with asthma in both rural and urban Ireland. The study will conclude at the end of this year.
