Asthma Australia urges women to be proactive in seeking treatment

Last year 300 women died from asthma, more than double the male fatalities (141).

Of the women who died, 32 were aged 55-64, an increase from 16 in 2016.

Asthma Australia chief executive Michele Goldman said 11.8 per cent of Australian women were living with asthma.

“It is very concerning to see such a rise in deaths of women of this age bracket,” she said.

“Treatment, information and medical advice is readily available for asthma, so what I think we’re seeing here is that women of this age group are putting other commitments before their own health or are complacent with their treatment.

“We are here to help women take charge of their asthma and to better understand how to live well with the disease.

“I also strongly suggest women with asthma visit their GP and be their own advocate by asking for a written Asthma Action Plan.

“I’m here to remind women that their families can’t afford to lose them to asthma.”

Asthma Australia has a helpline – 1800-278-462 –  which can provide direction on the best pathway for better care.

Symptoms include chest tightness, breathlessness, wheezing and coughing. Asthma has a number of triggers including pollen, dust, sudden temperature changes, animal allergies, colds and flu.

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