Breathe Hawke's Bay teaches asthma awareness in sport

Mike O'Malley, Pacific Surf Club (left), Irene O'Malley, Greendale Tennis Club, Aaron Hawke, Greendale Swim Club and Debbie Scott, respiratory nurse educator. Photo/Duncan Brown.

In an attempt to ensure asthma does not prevent people entering into sport in the region, Breathe Hawke's Bay is equipping managers, coaches and club members on how to deal with respiratory issues in sport.

As part of their Asthma Friendly Sports Club programme, five clubs in the region took part in the free 20-minute presentation on Tuesday.

Clinical nurse manager at Breathe Hawke's Bay, Julie Shaw said it had been "designed to educate and give managers and coaches of sports and recreational clubs, the tools to recognise asthma symptoms and if need be, manage an asthma emergency".

"It empowers managers and coaches on how best to support people with asthma.

The programme, which has only been running for about 12 months has been granted funding by Pub Charity.

"Not just for children but also adults. It is a good resource for clubs to have in their first aid kits.

So far, 20 clubs in Hawke's Bay have taken part in the course, which focuses on what happens to the airways in asthma, asthma signs and symptoms, asthma triggers, exercise-induced asthma and asthma first aid.

On completion, each coach or manager who attends receives a resource pack including a booklet containing information matching the education session, a spacer and a first aid magnet.

"It has dove-tailed from the asthma-friendly schools programme and is all about breaking down the barriers and improving awareness."

Ms Shaw said they were endorsed by Sports Hawke's Bay and had GP Dr Alan Wright as their medical adviser.

Programme ambassador Ellery Wilson - an asthmatic himself and sports person - said he recognised need the need to educate coaches and management.

Organisers plan to run another event in the new year, as well as continuing to visit sports clubs.

Breathe Hawke's Bay (formerly Asthma Hawke's Bay) has been established for about 40 years, offering free and low-cost respiratory health services and education by respiratory registered nurses.

For more information and how to get involved, phone Breathe Hawke's Bay on 0800 278462, or email admin@breathehb.co.nz or visit www.breathehb.co.nz