Thousands of asthmatics can find relief by learning to breathe less, according to a former sufferer promoting his 'cure' in Hong Kong.
But the controversial technique has no scientific proof, a top Hong Kong respiratory specialist says.
Former financial consultant Dennis Champion, an asthmatic who has 'been able to breathe properly for the first time in 30 years' since learning the Russian technique, is visiting Hong Kong to gauge interest in setting up courses.
The technique, called the Buteyko method after its founder, Russian professor Konstantin Buteyko, caused a stir in Britain after a television programme claimed severe asthmatics could cut their medication up to 90 per cent and markedly improve their lives after the five-day, GBP290 (HK$3,730) course.
Its supporters claim it can be used to treat many other respiratory illnesses and allergies.
Department of Health figures show the number of asthma and emphysema sufferers receiving hospital treatment rose from 9,987 in 1994 to 12,125 in 1996 - the latest figures available.