Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 18 Dec 1990

Vol. 404 No. 1

Written Answers. - Asthma Sufferers.

Joe Sherlock

Ceist:

191 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the research in reports (details supplied) which calls for more education and information to be provided to parents in helping to identify the huge numbers of children who suffer from asthma and have them treated with modern medicines; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

192 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health if he has studied the report on the prevalence and impact of asthma on children; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 191 and 192 together. I am aware of the report of the research to which the Deputies refer. It is a summary of a personal research project which was completed in 1988 and which is currently being submitted to a medical journal for publication. Figures on the prevalence of asthma vary considerably depending on the population studied and the diagnostic criteria used. The incidence depends on a large number of unknown variables. The report highlights the important role of information and education in the early diagnosis and treatment of asthma. In recognition of such a role the health promotion unit of my Department have provided substantial funding to the Asthma Society of Ireland for the production of a comprehensive information booklet on asthma which incorporates advice on the causes, prevention and treatment of asthma together with information on the effective medications now available.