26 April 2006

`Breathalyser Test' for shoppers on World Asthma Day

Shoppers in Dundee’s Overgate Centre will be able to take a "breathalyser test" for asthma on World Asthma Day.

A team of researchers from the University of Dundee’s Asthma and Allergy Research Group will be in the centre throughout the day on Tuesday May 2nd giving the quick tests which can have a long-lasting impression.

"It is a very simple, 90-second test from which we can gain an initial impression of whether someone may be suffering from asthma," said Daniel Menzies, Clinical Research Fellow in the Asthma and Allergy Research Group.

"Many people experience asthma-type symptoms without ever seeking a diagnosis, and we know that there are many people suffering from asthma who simply don’t realise it."

"A very quick and safe test like this could make a big difference to people’s everyday lives, and they won’t even have to sacrifice too much shopping time!"

Nurses will also be on hand to distribute information on asthma and rhinitis, a group of conditions which includes hayfever.

At the same time there will also be a stand in the main foyer at Ninewells Hospital distributing leaflets and giving out asthma and rhinitis information.

Visitors at either site can also enter a prize draw in which prizes include flying lessons, dinner at local restaurants, cinema tickets and more. The competition has been supported by a wide variety of local businesses across Tayside.

The Asthma and Allergy Research Group is also co-ordinating a schools competition to design a logo for the Group, with a prize of £50 cash for the individual, and £150 for the school in book tokens. The competition will be launched on World Asthma Day.

NOTES TO EDITORS

* 300 Million people worldwide have asthma, and this is expected to increase by a further 100 million by 2025

* Scotland has the highest prevalence rates in the world for childhood asthma symptoms. In adults, Scotland is 3rd highest

* One in twelve adults in Scotland have asthma, which means 390,000 are currently receiving treatment

* 95% of adult asthmatics have symptoms that could be better controlled

For media enquiries contact:

Roddy Isles
Head, Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384910
E-MAIL: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk