Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, and occurs in people of all ages. It is the most common chronic disease among children. It currently affects about 339 million people.
Asthma cannot be cured, but proper diagnosis, treatment and patient education can result in good asthma control and management.
Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, which vary in severity and frequency from person to person. Asthma can also present with chest tightness and cough.
Over 80% of asthma deaths occur in low and lower-middle income countries. For effective control, it is essential to make good-quality medications affordable and available, especially for low-income families.
For some people the symptoms become worse during physical activity or at night. Failure to recognize and avoid triggers that lead to a tightened airway can be life threatening and may result in an asthma attack, respiratory distress and even death.
Through appropriate treatment such as using inhaled corticosteroids to ease bronchial inflammation, the number of asthma exacerbation and asthma-related deaths can be reduced.
It can be controlled through different prevention and treatment plans according to individual symptoms, leading to increased quality of life.
The strongest risk factors for developing asthma are exposure to indoor allergens such as house dust mites in bedding, carpets and stuffed furniture; pollution and pet dander; outdoor allergens such as pollens and moulds; tobacco smoke and chemical irritants in the workplace.
Asthma triggers can include cold air, extreme emotional arousal such as anger or fear, and physical exercise.
Asthma creates a substantial burden to individuals and families and possibly restricts individuals' activities for a lifetime.