Development and implementation of asthma guidelines

In recent years there has been concern regarding asthma management, with a number of studies identifying poor management. In addition, prevalence, and until relatively recently mortality, have been increasing in patients with asthma. In parallel with these developments has been the publication of a large number of asthma guidelines. Many deficiencies identified in earlier guidelines have been corrected in more recent publications - especially those using an evidence-based format. The critical problem of disseminating and implementing the guidelines remains. It appears that traditional continuing medical education will not lead to a change in clinical practice. The challenge remains to create a framework for implementing methodologically sound guidelines locally.