An MP who chairs a parliamentary group on respiratory health has called for a better deal for asthma patients after a charity report highlighted worrying gaps in care.

Stevenage’s Stephen McPartland has highlighted the Asthma UK findings that thousands of people with asthma could be at an increased risk of an attack due to poor prescribing practice.

He said: “This report shows that thousands of people with asthma have been prescribed medicines without national clinical guidelines being followed, leaving them at risk of a potentially life-threatening asthma attack.”

A national review has highlighted prescribing errors in nearly half of asthma deaths in primary care, and concluded that two in every three asthma deaths could be prevented with better routine care.

Mr McPartland said: “There is a need to do more to improve standards of care for sufferers from asthma and other respiratory diseases, and that is why I am joining the call to end complacency in asthma care and stop unsafe prescribing.”

Asthma UK chief executive Kay Boycott added: “Anyone with asthma who is concerned by these findings should try not to worry – they are not in any immediate danger.

“However, it is important that people with asthma really understand their medicines and take an active role in managing their medication.

“Anyone who is using their reliever inhaler more than three times a week and hasn’t had a recent review should also contact their GP.”

More information is available on the charity’s 0800 121 62 44 helpline or online at www.asthma.org.uk.