Community Pharmacy Asthma Awareness

Webinar Now Available

In the UK, asthma continues to be a significant health challenge, with the highest asthma death rates in Western Europe. Despite previous reviews highlighting critical gaps in care – including poor inhaler technique, overuse of relievers, and underuse of preventers – progress has been slow, and lives continue to be lost.

In November 2024, a major step forward was taken with the publication of the first joint national asthma guideline  Asthma: diagnosis, monitoring and chronic asthma management (BTS, NICE, SIGN). This comprehensive guidance offers a unified approach to asthma care and has the potential to be a turning point – but only if implemented effectively across all areas of healthcare.

Community pharmacy is uniquely positioned to support this transformation. Pharmacists are often the most accessible healthcare professionals and have regular contact with patients, making them vital in ensuring guideline uptake and improving asthma outcomes.

The SY ICB Community Pharmacy Asthma Awareness Event held in May 2025, explores the new national asthma guidance with a focus on adults and adolescents aged 12 and over. Key topics include:

• Key changes in asthma treatment strategies

• Practical insights on implementing AIR (anti-inflammatory reliever therapy) and MART (maintenance and reliever therapy)

• How community pharmacy can play a leading role in improving asthma care

Whether you’re a pharmacist, technician, or part of the wider primary care team, this webinar provides essential information and practical tips to support better outcomes for people living with asthma.