Asthma is one of the most important diseases affecting our society. It is an extremely common condition that reduces quality of life, and acute exacerbations can be life-threatening. It affects a disproportionate number of children. With the overwhelming volume of research being carried out in this field specialists need a method of keeping up-to-date with current opinion.

As with the other 'Challenges' books, 'Challenges in Asthma' is aimed at hospital specialists and therefore assumes a certain level of knowledge about the disease. It builds on this by discussing only areas of controversy and uncertainty in both the basic understanding of asthma and its management. An international author list will provide stimulating debate with, and ultimately draw some conclusions from, existing data which will benefit readers in their day-to-day practice.

This book brings a new approach to the subject of asthma, highlighting the current areas of controversy and debate. A wide spectrum, ranging from clinical investigation into the scientific basis of the disease through to its management and prognosis is covered. In each section, a selection of controversial issues are discussed.

Internationally renowned experts critically appraise the literature and combine this with their own clinical and research experience to present an informed view of range of issues. Arguments are therefore supported by the most frequently available evidence. Asthma: Critical Debates provides the reader with an up-to-date interpretation of the clinical trial data in this field and their relevance to daily practice.