Asthma attacks rise to higher than five-year average

The Royal College of GPs is calling for action to reduce air pollution levels after latest statistics reveal that the number of asthma attacks being treated in general practice have increased 45% in a year. Data from the RCGP-Oxford Research and Surveillance Centre – which monitors appointments in general practice – shows that the national rate of chronic asthma exacerbations has been consistently above the five-year average during 2025. GPs in England alone have dealt with 45,458 presentations since the start of this year – a 45% increase compared to the same period for 2024.