The study was carried out in 2000 and involved 38 asthmatics aged between 18 and 70. One group learned the Buteyko method while the other was given conventional asthma education and relaxation techniques.
Results from the six-month trial showed an 85% reduction in inhaled relievers and a 50% reduction in inhaled steroids for the Buteyko group. The control group showed a 37% reduction in reliever medication and no change in their preventer medication after six months.
‘The Buteyko Breathing Technique is a safe and efficacious asthma management technique. BBT has clinical and potential pharmaco-economic benefits that merit further study.’
Patrick McHugh, Fergus Aitcheson, Bruce Duncan and Frank Houghton Buteyko Breathing Technique for asthma: an effective intervention NZMJ 12 December 2003 V 116 No 1187
