THE LAST WORD
By Pat Coughlan
Asthma in Ireland is a silent struggle, often overshadowed in the policy landscape. Despite its prevalence, the Government has yet to formally recognise asthma as a disability, leaving many without the support they desperately need. Politicians, both local and national, ignore the issue. This oversight not only limits access to resources but also impacts the daily lives of those affected.
As someone who has witnessed these challenges firsthand, I aim to shed light on the urgent need for policy change. By recognising asthma’s impact, we can push for the necessary reforms to improve the lives of asthmatics across the country.
Asthma is a significant health crisis in Ireland, especially in Kilkenny. The Asthma Society of Ireland reports over 380,000 sufferers nationwide, with 12,000 in Kilkenny. Despite its prevalence, asthma lacks attention from policymakers, leaving sufferers with inadequate support.
A 2022 HSE study revealed only 30% of asthma patients in Ireland have an action plan, showing a gap in healthcare. Financially, asthma costs Ireland €472 million annually, according to the Asthma Society. This lack of comprehensive healthcare affects many people’s quality of life, leading to costly treatments without institutional support. Ireland trails behind European asthma management. Improved healthcare access and awareness through legislation are crucial to ease the burden on affected individuals and communities.
Recognising asthma as a formal disability in Ireland could be transformative. It would open doors to essential accommodations and State aid, significantly easing the burdens on families. Legal recognition could ensure asthmatics receive necessary workplace adjustments, safeguarding their employment rights.
By acknowledging asthma’s impact, we can foster a more inclusive society, where those affected are supported and empowered to lead fulfilling lives.
Having asthma recognised as a disability could be a game-changer for patients in Ireland, particularly in Kilkenny. Such recognition would grant access to tailored healthcare services and financial support, thus reducing the economic burden on families. Furthermore, workplace adjustments could be more readily available, ensuring asthmatics maintain employment.
The current position is that each patient must pursue an independent legal declaration of disability.
Ireland’s health system struggles during asthma emergencies, as seen in the 2019 flu season, which overwhelmed resources. Insufficient investment in asthma research and treatment stretches healthcare thin. A shortage of specialised clinics means patients often turn to GPs who lack expertise and resources in severe cases. This gap became evident in 2020 when Covid-19 spiked asthma attacks, compounding strain on services. Improving asthma outcomes requires more healthcare resources like hospital beds and specialised training, and prioritising asthma in health agendas.
In Kilkenny, grassroots initiatives hold significant promise for advancing asthma policy recognition. Local leaders can amplify affected voices and foster community engagement.
For example, in New Zealand’s ‘Asthma Voice’ program united communities to advocate for better healthcare, resulting in improved asthma medication access. Canada’s ‘Breathe Easy’ campaign started small but achieved national support. Initiatives like California’s ‘Clean Air Right Now’ resulted in stricter air pollution regulations.
The Asthma Society of Ireland, The Irish Wheelchair Association and our own Kilkenny Access Group should have the cause of asthma sufferers at the top of their agenda.
Let’s make this a collective effort for meaningful change.
