Smoking rates are falling according to the first Annual Statement of Progress for Respiratory Conditions published today.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Health Secretary Vaughan Gething today welcomed the publication of the statement which shows progress made against the actions set down in the Respiratory Health Delivery Plan.
The main achievements highlighted in the report include:
- Fewer people are smoking than ever before, with rates now below the 2016 target of 20%
- Every GP practice in Wales has been offered a new spirometer, which help diagnose and monitor certain lung conditions;
- Over 400 health professionals have begun training as accredited spirometry practitioners, with the aim of every GP practice having at least one trained member of staff;
- In South Wales, the introduction of a specialist service to support the management of a complex group of lung conditions known as Interstitial Lung Diseases has led to a significant reduction in referral to diagnosis. A similar team is about to start work in North Wales
- Improved support and self-management training for patients to manage their chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma
“These changes are improving the quality of life for many of those affected by respiratory conditions, although we know there is more work to do.
“We are seeing real progress in improving respiratory care, and we will continue to work with health boards to support patients.”