Asthma

According to WHO estimates, there were 417 918 deaths due to asthma at the global level and 24.8 million DALYS attributable to asthma in 2016.

Asthma deaths will increase in the next 10 years if urgent action is not taken

Asthma cannot be cured, but proper diagnosis, treatment and patient education can result in good asthma control and management.

Asthma is a major noncommunicable disease (NCD), affecting both children and adults, and is the most common chronic disease among children.

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.

Asthma occurs in all countries regardless of level of development

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.

Symptoms may occur several times in a day or week

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.

Inhaled medication can control asthma symptoms and allow people with asthma to lead a normal, active life.

Through appropriate treatment such as using inhaled corticosteroids to ease bronchial inflammation, the number of asthma exacerbation and asthma-related deaths can be reduced.

Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children.

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 inhaled substances and particles that may provoke allergic reactions or irritate the airways.

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.

Avoiding asthma triggers can reduce the severity of asthma

Asthma triggers can include cold air, extreme emotional arousal such as anger or fear, and physical exercise.

Asthma is often under-diagnosed and under-treated

Asthma creates a substantial burden to individuals and families and possibly restricts individuals' activities for a lifetime.