Asthma is now recognised as a chronic inflammatory disease associated with increased airways responsiveness and episodic reversible airways obstruction. It is the most common chronic disease in children and its prevalence is increasing in most countries of the world. Current emphasis in treating paediatric patients with asthma is on preventing asthma-induced airways remodelling (changes in structure and function) and maximising lung growth with the intention of preventing fixed airways obstruction in adulthood. The advent of managed care has helped to promote optimal disease management strategies which look beyond drug therapy to preventative measures. Details of a successful disease management programme for children with asthma were presented at The Disease Management Congress*[New York, US; June 1997].