National Study into Asthma deaths reveals that patients are dying unnecessarily

The national study, Why Asthma still kills, involved a detailed examination of the circumstances surrounding 195 deaths from asthma in the UK in 2012. In total, the UK recorded 1,242 deaths from asthma during this year – meaning that we have some of the highest death rates in Europe.

The review found that 46% of deaths could have been avoided with better care and that there was “room for improvement” in the care received by 86% of those who died – statistics that the charity Asthma UK, which works hard to support the families of asthma sufferers, describes as “heart-breaking”.

The report calls for  better monitoring and improved education for doctors, nurses, patients and carers and those involved in the report have warned that despite the challenges currently faced by the NHS there is a clear need “to prioritise asthma care in order to reduce deaths in the UK.”

Our team of clinical negligence specialists at Anthony Collins Solicitors have experience at handling cases that tragically involve deaths from asthma. We recognise and understand the issues that are involved with these cases and we are able to guide the families through the legal process with sensitivity and care. This can often involve helping families through an Inquest, as well as offering advice and assistance in relation to advancing a negligence claim.

If you would like to discuss a potential claim in confidence; or if you are concerned about ongoing aspects of asthma management then please contact Charlotte Measures, an Associate Solicitor in our clinical negligence team, on 0121 212 7878 or via charlotte.measures@anthonycollins.com.

BBC News – Asthma deaths report warns complacency is costing lives

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