Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. It affects people of all ages and can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Asthma is a major noncommunicable disease, affecting both children and adults. It is the most common chronic disease among children and can lead to significant health issues if not managed properly. In 2019, asthma affected an estimated 262 million people and caused more than 400,000 deaths. Most asthma-related deaths occur in low- and lower-middle-income countries, where under-diagnosis and under-treatment are common challenges.

Many factors have been linked to an increased risk of developing asthma, although it is often difficult to find a single, direct cause.

• Asthma is more likely if other family members also have asthma,  particularly a close relative, such as a parent or sibling.
• Asthma is more likely in people who have other allergic conditions, such as eczema and rhinitis (hay fever).
• Urbanization is associated with increased asthma prevalence, probably due to multiple lifestyle factors.
• Events in early life affect the developing lungs and can increase the risk of asthma. These include low birth weight, prematurity, exposure to tobacco smoke and other sources of air pollution, as well as viral respiratory infections.
• Exposure to a range of environmental allergens and irritants are also thought to increase the risk of asthma, including indoor and outdoor air pollution, house dust mites, moulds, and occupational exposure to chemicals, fumes or dust.
• Children and adults who are overweight or obese are at a greater risk of asthma.

Asthma cannot be cured, but there are several treatments available. The most common treatment is to use an inhaler, which delivers medication directly to the lungs.
Inhalers can help control the disease and enable people with asthma to enjoy a normal, active life.

There are two main types of inhalers:

• Bronchodilators that open the air passages and relieve symptoms
• Steroids that reduce inflammation in the air passages, which improves asthma symptoms and reduces the risk of severe asthma attacks and death.

People with asthma may need to use their inhaler every day. Their treatment will depend on the frequency of symptoms and the types of inhalers available.

1. Frequent Asthma Attacks: Severe asthma attacks can be life-threatening and may require emergency medical care.
2. Chronic Respiratory Issues: Long-term asthma can lead to chronic respiratory problems, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
3. Sleep Disturbances: Asthma symptoms can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and poor concentration.
4. Reduced Quality of Life: People with asthma may miss school or work, impacting their overall quality of life and causing financial strain on families and communities.

Adhering to your asthma treatment plan is crucial for managing the condition and preventing complications. This includes:

• Taking Medications: Always take your prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid asthma triggers such as dust, smoke, fumes, and allergens.
• Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your symptoms and use a peak flow meter to monitor your lung function.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet to support overall lung health.
• Regular Check-ups: Visit your healthcare provider regularly for check-ups and to review your treatment plan.