Asthma
191. Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the research which is being carried out here into the benefits of the Buteyko Breathing Method as a safe, natural asthma management technique, which can be used in conjunction with medication if required; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37753/05]
Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney): I have had this matter examined and on consulting the Health Research Board, I have been informed that there has not to-date been any HRB funded research in Ireland on breathing techniques for asthma. There have been a small number of trials carried out outside this country looking at the efficacy of breathing techniques for asthma. No reliable conclusions can be drawn concerning the use of breathing techniques for asthma in clinical practice.
The use of any treatment modality in any area of medical practice is a matter for individual practitioners based on best practice as reflected in the peer-reviewed research literature, standards and guidance provided by professional bodies and practitioners’ own individual experience.
The Department would not be in a position to advocate the use of any particular programme of treatment in the complex and difficult area of asthma management.