The Asthma course provides a thorough exploration of asthma care, blending foundational knowledge with advanced clinical strategies. Presented by Dr. Alice Lam, a seasoned GP with a passion for evidence-based medicine, the course is divided into six comprehensive units:
Unit 0: Introduction
This introductory unit sets the stage by outlining the global and national burden of asthma, emphasising its impact on health outcomes, quality of life, and healthcare costs. Participants will gain an understanding of the learning objectives: effective diagnosis, evaluation, and management of asthma across diverse patient populations.
Unit 1: Overview
Explore the fundamental aspects of asthma, including:
- Epidemiology: Patterns of asthma prevalence globally and in Australia.
- Pathogenesis: Understanding airway inflammation and its progression.
- Risk Factors: Genetic predispositions, environmental triggers, and lifestyle influences. Gain insights into the complexity of asthma and the importance of tailored management approaches.
Unit 2: Diagnosis and Evaluation
Learn the clinical criteria for diagnosing asthma through history, physical examination, and objective testing such as spirometry and peak flow monitoring. This unit also discusses:
- Mimics of asthma, such as COPD and foreign body inhalation.
- Diagnostic challenges in pediatric and adult populations.
- The importance of a structured and systematic approach to diagnosis.
Unit 3: Diagnosis and Management in Adolescents and Adults
Delve into adult and adolescent asthma care with topics including:
- Diagnostic algorithms and use of spirometry.
- Treatment strategies ranging from SABAs and ICS to advanced biologics for severe asthma.
- Management of comorbidities and triggers, including smoking cessation and psychosocial support.
- Guidelines for asthma action plans and strategies for assessing asthma control.
Unit 4: Diagnosis and Management in Infants and Children
This unit focuses on pediatric asthma, highlighting:
- Unique diagnostic challenges and red flags for alternative diagnoses.
- Management strategies tailored for preschoolers and school-aged children.
- Guidelines for medication use, including SABAs, inhaled corticosteroids, and Montelukast.
- Parental education and tools for empowering caregivers in managing pediatric asthma.
Unit 5: Thunderstorm Asthma, Emergencies, Vaccination, and Resources
The final unit covers specialised topics, including:
- Thunderstorm Asthma: Risk factors, prevention strategies, and treatment guidelines.
- Emergency Management: Acute asthma care for children and adults in primary care settings.
- Vaccination: Recommendations for flu, pertussis, pneumococcal, and other vaccines for asthma patients. Participants will also explore additional resources and tools to enhance asthma management in clinical practice.
This course equips healthcare professionals with a comprehensive skill set to diagnose, manage, and educate patients with asthma. By integrating evidence-based practices, participants will be prepared to optimise patient care, reduce exacerbations, and improve quality of life for those living with asthma.
All degree qualified medical practitioners.
