Sheahan ban worries Asthma sufferers

The Asthma Society of Ireland today expressed its concern that the ban imposed on rugby player Frankie Sheahan may send out wrong and worrying signals to tens of thousands of people living with asthma.

The fact that the ban was imposed as a result of a positive test for the commonly-used reliever inhaler – salbutamol - has alarmed many asthma sufferers, particularly those involved in sport, according to the ASI.

The society said that since news of the ban emerged, over the weekend, a number of people have dialled the ASI asthma line to voice their concerns.

"Some of them are high level athletes, others are competitive or just recreational sports people. Some are the parents or coaches of athletes. And all of them want to know one thing – Is it safe to keep using their reliever inhalers in sport? The answer is a resounding “Yes”," an ASI statement said.

"It is vital that people with asthma know that reliever inhalers are a safe and important component of their asthma management plan. Their use should not be discontinued without medical advice," the ASI warned.

“Asthma should not be a barrier to participation in sport at any level, or to leading a normal life,” said Dr. Pat Manning, consultant respiratory physician and Chairman of the Medical Committee of the Asthma Society of Ireland.

“Relievers such as inhaled salbutamol are a safe and effective therapy for use in asthma and are permitted in most sports when prescribed by a physician for an asthmatic. We in the Asthma Society of Ireland encourage people with asthma to keep active and to participate in sport – competitive or otherwise – at whatever level they can.”

The Asthma Society called on the governing bodies in Irish sport to enter this debate, and to give clarity and consistency regarding the use of asthma medication in sports.