Asthma is increasingly recognised as a heterogeneous disease, with several phenotypes defined by clinical and inflammatory characteristics. Common phenotypes include allergic (eosinophilic, IgE-mediated), non-allergic (often neutrophilic or paucigranulocytic), late-onset adult asthma, obesity-associated asthma, and asthma with persistent airflow limitation.14 Identifying phenotypes supports individualised treatment strategies, particularly in those with severe asthma, and better long-term outcomes.
Steps 2 and 3: Maintenance and reliever therapy (MART)
Comorbid conditions can complicate asthma management. Assess for and help address factors such as allergic rhinitis, which affects up to 80% of people with asthma,24 as well as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), anxiety, depression, obstructive sleep apnoea and smoking.
Not Yet Equal
The LGBTQIA+ community experiences poorer health outcomes than other Australians. As Sydney plays host to the WorldPride festival in February and March, it’s time for the entire health system – including pharmacists – to step up.
Catastrophic fire ratings highlight need for better emergency dispensing provisions
State and federal health departments have advised of options available to pharmacists in parts of NSW and Queensland affected by this week’s catastrophic-level fires.
Under...
If catastrophe calls, include these ‘musts’ in your plan
It’s imperative that every pharmacy have a disaster plan, a clear written procedure on what to do, to eliminate delays getting deliveries to affected areas.
Groups raise fears over Qld pharmacy deregulation
Submissions to the current Queensland Government inquiry into pharmacy ownership and regulation in the state have resoundingly supported current ownership provisions, amid concerns that...
The new normal
A new PSA report describes the digital future of Australian health care, a ‘new normal’ with pharmacists front and centre, equipped with more information...
Remote Australians at increased risk for diabetes complications
Mortality rates are four times higher for Indigenous patients with diabetes than non-Indigenous Australians, a report has found.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare...
