Taking My Breath Away (accidentally): Asthma with Respiratory Physician Dr David Feng

Dave speaks to Kylie Baxter, presenter, on the ABC Radio Hobart Drive program.This episode originally aired live on 7 May 2025, for World Asthma Day.Series curated by Dr Lila LandowskiDr David FengRespiratory Physician, Calvary HospitalFounder, Tasmanian Lung Centre (Respiratory Medicine Clinic and lung function testing service)Keywords: asthma, respiratory health, inhaled corticosteroids, asthma management, World Asthma Day, diagnosis of asthma, asthma treatment, health awareness, respiratory physician, asthma prevalenceSummaryIn this conversation, Dr. David Feng, a respiratory physician, discusses asthma in detail, particularly in the context of World Asthma Day. He explains the nature of asthma, its prevalence in Australia, especially in Tasmania, and the importance of proper diagnosis and management. The discussion highlights recent advancements in asthma treatment, particularly the shift towards inhaled corticosteroids as a first-line treatment, and emphasizes the significance of access to appropriate medications. The conversation concludes with recommendations for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms to consult their GP.TakeawaysOne in nine Australians has asthma.Asthma is a disease of our lung tubes.Southern Tasmania is one of the most asthmatic regions.Asthma is still a clinical diagnosis.Inhaled corticosteroids should be used first line.Excessive oral steroid use can lead to serious side effects.Ventolin is actually not a preventer.We should be using inhaled steroids as a reliever.The theme of World Asthma Day is access to puffers.Having a conversation with your GP is worth doing.Chapters00:00 Understanding Asthma: A Global Perspective03:10 Diagnosis and Management of Asthma05:50 Recent Advances in Asthma Treatment08:11 World Asthma Day: Themes and Recommendations