ASTHMA campaigners in Wales are demanding the Welsh government take action to tackle one of the highest respiratory death rates in western Europe.

Asthma + Lung UK Cymru has launched a major report ahead of World Asthma Day on Tuesday to expose failings in asthma care in Wales.

The charity’s most recent survey found that less than a quarter of people with asthma received basic care in 2022.

It points out that two-thirds of asthma deaths would have been preventable with better basic care.

Head of Asthma + Lung UK Cymru Joseph Carter said: “This report shows why we must urgently raise the bar in asthma care in Wales. 

“It’s no exaggeration to describe Wales’s record on lung health as shameful.

“Not only are our poorest communities affected the most, but women are also twice as likely to die of an asthma attack than men. 

“We must address the stark inequalities and improve the care and support in people are currently receiving in Wales.”

The report highlights key failings and says that the legacy of the pandemic looms over much of the Welsh NHS: lung health, including asthma care, has suffered. 

The charity said that poor access to care, a reliance on reliever medication and the absence of a new delivery plan has left Wales with one of the highest respiratory death rates in western Europe.

In response, a Welsh government spokesperson said: “We are taking firm action to create a healthier and greener Wales. 

“This includes action to improve air quality, reduce smoking rates and support people living with respiratory diseases.

“We provide health boards with substantial funding each year and as part of this we expect them to deliver comprehensive support for people with lung conditions including asthma."