A survey by Asthma UK Cymru shows that over half (54%) of people with asthma prescribed steroid medication in Wales are 'very' or 'fairly' concerned about side effects and together form the nation with the strongest concerns.

The nation least likely to have strong concerns about the side effects of steroids is Scotland with 45%. People with asthma in Northern Ireland have also been found to be the least likely to allow their concerns to affect their use of steroid medication whereas people in England are the most likely to be non-compliant.

Of the 125,000 people with asthma prescribed steroid medication in Wales concerned about side effects, 19% do not take their steroid medication due to their concerns and 12% only take their medication when they have symptoms.

In the UK women were shown to be more likely than men to report their concerns, whereas men are more likely to allow their concerns to affect their use of steroid medication. The strongest concerns are expressed by the 45-54 age group with just over half (54%) of this group saying they are 'very' or 'fairly' concerned.

Patients are often concerned about the risk of developing osteoporosis caused by taking prolonged high doses of steroids. However, it is important to weigh up risks versus benefit and we know that inhaled steroids are the most effective preventer drug for adults and children for achieving good asthma control.

Inhaled steroid medicines are usually taken at low doses and the medication goes straight to the airways so very little is absorbed into the rest of the body. Those who encounter side effects such as hoarseness of voice, sore throat or mouth infection can help to avoid them by taking their inhaler via a spacer, brushing their teeth and rinsing their mouth afterwards.

Professor Martyn Partridge, Chief Medical Adviser to Asthma UK says: 'Good doctor patient communication is an essential component of asthma management and patients will understandably not take medicines about which they have concerns. Those with asthma should feel absolutely free to question doctors about their prescriptions and expect to be asked to express any concerns so that a balanced discussion regarding the facts may follow. Once reassured however people with asthma should do their best to take prescribed medicines as not doing so can have a profound effect on their health and well-being.'

Janet Pardue-Wood, National Director of Asthma UK Cymru says: 'Despite effective medication for the majority of people with asthma, Asthma UK Wales's data highlights that approximately 1 in 3 (36%) of people with asthma in Wales have not had a full discussion with a doctor or nurse about what asthma medicines, including side effects, are best for them. These results highlight the need to understand the concerns people with asthma have around their treatment, so that informed discussions can improve asthma control and reduce the number of emergency admissions.'

People with asthma concerned about side effects of steroids can call the Asthma UK Adviceline on 08457 01 02 03, which is a confidential service staffed by trained asthma nurses.

asthma