Asthma Death Toll Drops

Main Category: Respiratory / Asthma
Article Date: 18 Mar 2009 - 3:00 PDT

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New data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that the Australian asthma death toll dropped in 2007, with 17 fewer deaths being recorded compared to 2006.

But, despite the decline, Australia's peak asthma body, the National Asthma Council Australia, has called the death toll 'disappointing'.

In 2007, asthma killed 385 Australians.

The median age at death was 79.4 years overall; or 71 years for males and 82.1 years for females.

"Asthma deaths are avoidable and a death toll in the hundreds is disappointing," said National Asthma Council Australia chairman, Dr Noela Whitby AM.

"While these new statistics are testimony to the fact that asthma management messages are hitting the mark with younger adults and carers of children with asthma, they also reinforce the need for increased vigilance, particularly amongst the older population.

"There is no room for complacency.

"Asthma kills and potentially it will continue to adversely impact our ageing population unless health professionals, carers and older people themselves take the threat seriously," she warned.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the number of overall deaths registered each year is continuing to slowly increase in line with the increase in both size and age of the Australian population.

Calling the new statistics a 'timely wake up call', Dr Whitby urged all Australians with asthma to ensure they had an up to date written asthma action plan and an annual review with their doctor.

Over two million Australians have asthma - one of the highest rates in the world.

Asthma deaths in Australia have dropped from a peak of 964 in 1989 to the latest toll of 385 in 2007.

Asthma cannot be cured - but it can be controlled with asthma medications and by following a written asthma action plan.

Source
National Asthma Council Australia

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