This World Asthma Day is observed on May 6 every year, with different themes. The theme for this year is: Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL. Around the globe, millions of people with asthma still struggle to access basic medications that help them breathe. Inhalers, essential tools for managing asthma, are still out of reach for many due to cost, availability, or lack of awareness. This year’s theme calls for change and equity in asthma care so that no one is left gasping for breath.
Asthma is a chronic condition that narrows and inflames the airways, making it harder to breathe, especially during exposure to triggers like dust, cold air, or pollen. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the condition affects people of all ages and backgrounds, but those in underserved communities often face the greatest barriers to treatment. With proper access to inhalers and care plans, asthma can be managed, symptoms reduced, and lives improved.
A study in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), suggests that asthma symptoms are often triggered by things like dust mites, mold, pet dander, pollen, stress, exercise, respiratory infections, certain medications, cold air, and pollution. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers is a key part of keeping asthma under control.
Also read | 11 things you must know about asthma: types, triggers, more
As per NHLBI, effective asthma management, including regular use of inhaled treatments, can dramatically reduce the number of hospital visits, missed school days, and long-term complications.
Here are 6 ways to manage asthma effectively:
- Know your triggers: Recognising what sets off your asthma, like allergens, stress, or pollution, is the first step to staying in control. Keep track and adjust your environment where possible.
- Follow your asthma action plan: Work with a healthcare provider to build a personal plan. This helps track symptoms, adjust medications, and know when to seek help.
- Use your inhaler correctly and consistently: Quick-relief and long-term inhalers each play an important role. Understanding proper technique and using them as prescribed ensures better results.
- Advocate for access to care: Support policies and programs that aim to make inhaled treatments affordable and available to all, especially in low-income and rural communities.
- Improve indoor air quality: Clean air can reduce symptoms significantly. Use filters, reduce allergens, and avoid strong scents or smoke indoors.
- Don’t ignore symptoms: Coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness aren’t just part of life with asthma. Early treatment can prevent flare-ups from becoming emergencies.
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