The BBC has recently reported that more than 1,400 adults and children died from asthma attacks in 2018, which equates to 2.5 people out of every 100,000. Kay Boycott, chief executive of Asthma UK, noted that it was “completely unacceptable that thousands of people with asthma in England and Wales have died needlessly” from asthma attacks.

A child aged 8, from Cambridgeshire, who suffered from mild asthma tragically passed away after suffering from breathing difficulties and collapsing. His mother noted that people need to be more aware of how serious the condition is.

It has been reported that these deaths are due to a lack of basic care, such as inhaler checks. More staff are required in GP practices so doctors can spend longer with asthma patients. A national review found that two-thirds of asthma deaths could have been prevented.

Asthma is a condition which affects the airways and causes breathlessness, wheezing, coughing, and a tight chest. GPs advise asthma patients to always have access to their prescription medication, not to let inhalers run out or expire without getting a replacement, and to understand how inhalers work.

Moosa-Duke Solicitors are specialists in clinical negligence. If you believe that you or a family member have received unsafe services from a GP or hospital, or been a victim of negligence, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0116 254 7456 to discuss your concerns.