Epidemic asthma and the role of the fungal mold Alternaria alternata.

Background: After July 29, 2002, an epidemic of asthma admissions was associated with a thunderstorm in the United Kingdom.

Objective: We sought to study the cause of epidemics of asthma associated with thunderstorms.

Methods: We performed a case-control study of 26 patients presenting to Cambridge University Hospital with asthma after the thunderstorm.

Measures to improve knowledge and self-care among patients with COPD: A UK general practice audit.

The Parchmore Partnership, London, audited 11 evidence-based criteria relating to patient knowledge and COPD morbidity during December 2004 to March 2005 using questionnaires and practice records. 32 patients with moderate to severe COPD participated, and during the project they received information and extra care. Patient knowledge and clinical indicators showed significant improvements.