Why is Asthma Becoming so Common?

Question 1

Describe what has happened to the prevalence of asthma in Scotland from 2004-2016.

Answer 1

• This graph is based on GP reporting which is a more reliable way to collect data than self-reporting.
• However, the limitation is that it only captures the people who are registered with GPs.

Question 2

Describe what has happened to the number of asthma-related hospital admissions between 2013 and 2018.

Answer 2

Question 3

Describe the trend in asthma deaths in Scotland from 2006-2016.

Answer 3

Question 4

Which groups are most affected by asthma?

Answer 4

• Social class - as deprivation increases, so too does prevalence of asthma and hospital admissions.
• Age and sex - higher in males and younger ages and this trend reverses in older age groups.

Question 5

Describe the prevalence of asthma emergency admissions based on age, sex and IMD quantile.

Answer 5

Question 6

Describe the prevalence of recent severe asthma symptoms based on age, sex and IMD quantile.

Answer 6

Question 7

What are the possible explanations for the increased prevalence of hospital admissions and severe symptoms due to asthma?

Answer 7

• Outdoor air pollution
• Indoor air pollution
• Substandard living conditions
• Inequalities
• Employment / working conditions

Question 8

Briefly describe the air pollution levels in Scotland.

Answer 8

Question 9

Briefly describe the air pollution levels globally.

Answer 9

• It is not only the problem of the UK; clouds of air pollution can move, so everywhere needs to improve their air pollution.

Question 10

What are the risk factors which contribute to respiratory illness?

Answer 10

• Increased risk of smoking
• Inadequate housing
• Working amongst pollutants
• Living near pollutants
• Unable to afford heating

Question 11

Access of adequate housing is a human right.

What are the key aspects of adequate housing?

Answer 11

• Security of tenure
• Affordability
• Habitability
• Equal and non-discriminatory access

Question 12

Describe the Scottish commitment to improving housing standards.

Answer 12

• The Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) was introduced in February 2004. It is the main way we measure housing quality in Scotland.
• Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS):
• Social landlords must make sure their tenants’ homes:
  
  • are energy efficient, safe and secure
  • are not seriously damaged
  • have kitchens and bathrooms that are in good condition

Question 13

What are the possible solutions to the air pollution problems which are causing respiratory illness?

Answer 13

• Policy changes - e.g. ultra low emission zones.
• Travel policies - incentives for ‘cycle to work’
• City design