4 VIEWS & REVIEWS

Many asthma deaths easily avoidable Two-thirds of adult asthma deaths could be

avoided, say Dr M Pearson and colleagues from Liverpool, UK. Efforts to reduce asthma deaths should be directed at the community, with co-ordinated care between community and hospital an important goal. Pharmacists also have a vital role to play in patient education.

In a retrospective study, Dr Pearson and colleagues found that 66% of asthma deaths in patients aged 16-65 years were associated with medical failure to recognise symptoms, to prescribe steroids or to monitor disease progress. About two-thirds of patients died at home or shortly after arrival at hospital, emphasising the need for a community approach. Two thirds of asthma deaths still preventable. Phannaceutical Journal 250: 19. 16 Jan 1993 01'71009

8 Feb 18113 INPHARMAe ISSN 0158-270319310206-00411.~ Adt.1nt8rnIItIcIMI Ltd