Winter can be a particularly challenging time for people with asthma and their families. Even as February arrives, cold weather, respiratory infections and indoor triggers continue to increase the risk of asthma flare-ups. Understanding asthma, knowing how to access care, and having the right treatment and supports in place can make a real difference.
On Wednesday 4 February 2026, from 7–8pm, we will host a free webinar, Asthma Care in Ireland, bringing together leading experts to explain how asthma care works in Ireland today and how people with asthma can access the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
The webinar will be chaired by Eilís Ní Chaithnía, CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland, who will introduce the speakers, outline the Society’s patient services and advocacy work, and guide audience questions throughout the session.
Professor Breda Cushen, Consultant Respiratory Physician at Beaumont Hospital, will provide an expert overview of asthma in Ireland. She will discuss the epidemiology, prevalence, morbidity and mortality of asthma, explain what asthma is and what happens in the lungs during asthma, and outline how asthma is diagnosed, including the role of lung function testing. Professor Cushen will also explain current treatment approaches under national and international guidelines, including the preference for MART (Maintenance and Reliever Therapy).
The session will also explain the end-to-end Model of Care for Asthma, which has been developed to improve access to services across Ireland. Attendees will learn how asthma care is delivered through:
- Primary Care, with GPs as the first point of contact
- Community Hubs, offering spirometry, specialist nurses and education
- Specialist Services, supporting people with more severe asthma, including access to biologics and advanced therapies
This will help people with asthma understand where services sit within the system and how to access the care they need.
Ruth Morrow, Respiratory Nurse Specialist with the Asthma Society of Ireland, will share practical, everyday advice to help people stay well during winter. This will include the importance of having an asthma action plan, following the 5-step rule, and recognising and avoiding common triggers.
Speakers
