Primary care respiratory journal : journal of the General Practice Airways Group
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To assess the risk of pneumonia among COPD patients using salmeterol/fluticasone propionate combination inhalers (SFC), inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), or long-acting beta-agonists (LABA), alone or in combination, compared to those using only short-acting bronchodilators (SABD). ⋯ Treatment with ICS or an ICS/LABA combination inhaler was not associated with a significantly increased risk of developing pneumonia.
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We describe the set-up of a population-based study focussed on respiratory conditions, and describe a pilot study - the PULmons SAns Illes Balears (PULSAIB) study - aimed at investigating the natural history of COPD, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), and other common chronic diseases. ⋯ A cohort study in the Balearic population to investigate the natural history of COPD and OSA is feasible.
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To evaluate prescriptions of asthma medication for children in primary care. ⋯ Continuation of asthma medication in children is low. Age at first prescription and the type of asthma medication are predictors of continuation of asthma medication from preschool into school-age.
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A UK survey of general practitioners (GPs) in 2002 found that they perceived allergy care throughout the UK National Health Service (NHS) to be poor. We conducted a follow-up survey in 2009 to see if GPs' perceptions had changed. ⋯ This survey suggests that recent professional and parliamentary reviews have not led to any notable improvements in GP perceptions of UK NHS allergy services between 2002 and 2009.
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Review
The ADMIT series--issues in inhalation therapy. 2. Improving technique and clinical effectiveness.
Aerosol inhalation is considered the optimal route for administering the majority of drugs for the treatment of obstructive airways diseases. A number of Pressurised Metered-Dose and Dry Powder Inhalers are available for this purpose. ⋯ Available data indicate a frequent lack of knowledge demonstrated by health professionals and patients on the inhalation manoeuvre and handling of inhalers, resulting in a reduction of therapeutic benefit. This paper reviews the literature concerning the fundamental aspects of inhaler devices, inhalation manoeuvre and device selection, in an attempt to increase the knowledge of, and to optimise the clinical use of, therapeutic inhalers.