Lung conditions disproportionately impact minority ethnic groups, asthma charity says
Minority ethnic groups and those from deprived communities are significantly more likely to be hospitalised for asthma, new research reveals.
According to The Guardian, data from the charity Asthma and Lung UK confirms Asian people are three times more likely to need emergency intervention for asthma than white people, whereas Black people are over two times as likely to require hospital treatment for asthma.
Commenting on the ‘shocking health inequalities in our society’, Sarah Sleet, chief executive of Asthma and Lung UK reportedly emphasized the ‘wake-up call’ required to prevent individuals from ethnic minorities and deprived communities from reaching ‘crisis point’.
‘Social disadvantages – including poor housing, mould, damp and air pollution – can both cause chronic lung conditions and make them worse. And it’s the poorest in society and those in ethnic minority communities who are more likely to be living in low-quality housing and in areas with high levels of air pollution’, she added.
Dr Hugo Farne, respiratory consultant at Imperial College told The Guardian: ‘These figures are a clear sign that healthcare support is not reaching those who need it most.'
'This requires urgent action, not only on healthcare access and provision for disadvantaged communities but also targeted public health interventions addressing housing, heating and the social determinants of health.’
