Parents and carers of children with asthma in West Yorkshire were reminded to make sure their asthma action plans were up-to-date and that they are taking their asthma prevention medicine as directed over the summer. 
Around one in ten young people has asthma in the UK and a child is admitted to hospital every 20 minutes because of an asthma attack, the majority of which are preventable.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition and causes symptoms like coughing, wheezing and breathlessness. It can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, pollution, and weather changes. Children with asthma are particularly vulnerable to these triggers, and their routine, preventive medication is crucial for managing the condition and preventing asthma attacks.
Asthma attacks tend to increase significantly in September after the school holidays, likely due to disruptions in medication routines during the summer break.
To raise awareness about the beneifts of prevention:
- Letters went out to parents and carers whose children and young people have asthma ahead of the new academic term
- A media release was shared reminding parents and carers about the benefits of prevention
- A new social media graphic was created as part of the suit of summer graphics as part of the Partnership’s ‘Together We Can’ campaign
- Resources previously created by Kirklees Health and Care Partnership were also shared to highlight this important issue.
Dr Katherine Hickman, a GP Partner in Bradford and Respiratory Lead for West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership provided clincal advise and expertise to support the development of all information and advice.