Asthma Education Empowers

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Asthma affects an estimated 262 million people annually. In 2019, 455,000 deaths were associated with asthma. Asthma is a chronic lung disease affecting people of all ages. It is caused by inflammation and muscle tightening around the airways, which makes it harder to breathe. Symptoms can include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. These symptoms can be mild or severe and can come and go over time. Although asthma can be a serious condition, it can be managed with the right treatment. People with symptoms of asthma should speak to a health professional. Asthma is often under-diagnosed and under-treated, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that people with under-treated asthma can suffer sleep disturbance, tiredness during the day, and poor concentration. Asthma sufferers and their families may miss school and work, with financial impact on the family and wider community. If symptoms are severe, people with asthma may need to receive emergency health care and they may be admitted to hospital for treatment and monitoring. In the most severe cases, asthma can lead to death. The focal point of World Asthma Day 2024 revolves around the theme "Asthma Education Empowers", highlighting the significance of unity and cooperation in tackling the obstacles encountered by individuals with asthma on a global scale Causes. 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. Urbanization is associated with increased asthma prevalence, probably due to multiple lifestyle factors. 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. Unfortunately, governments do not pay adequate attention to matters concerning the environment. As the environment deteriorates it is very likely to see an increase in asthma cases globally. In Jamaica, the Riverton City garbage disposal site continues to be problematic for those who suffer from asthma. In fact, the Ministry of Health disclosed that high levels of hazardous substances, including the cancer-causing benzene, have been found in the air-quality tests that were done on the smoke from the Riverton City disposal site in recent times. Treatment. 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 (such as salbutamol), that open the air passages and relieve symptoms and steroids (such as beclometasone) that reduce inflammation in the air passages, which improves asthma symptoms and reduces the risk of severe asthma attacks and death. Some people with asthma may need to use their inhalers every day. Their treatment will depend on the frequency of symptoms and the types of inhalers available. Using an inhaler can be difficult, especially for children and during emergency situations. Using a spacer device makes it easier to use an aerosol inhaler. This helps the medicine to reach the lungs more easily. A spacer is a plastic container with a mouthpiece or mask at one end and a hole for the inhaler at the other. A homemade spacer, made from a 500ml plastic bottle, can be as effective as commercially manufactured spacers. Access to inhalers is a problem in many countries. In 2021, bronchodilators were available in public primary health care facilities in half of low- and low-middle income countries, and steroid inhalers available in one third. It is always a good idea to check on your asthma pumps regarding the expiration dates and ensure you have your asthma pump on hand. WHO Response. Asthma is included in the WHO Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. WHO is taking action to extend diagnosis of and treatment for asthma in a number of ways. Reducing tobacco smoke exposure is important for both primary prevention of asthma and disease management. Air pollution is an important risk factor for asthma, causing new cases and making existing diseases worse. WHO has developed training for health care workers on air pollution which highlights this link and offers practical advice to reduce and mitigate exposure. It is important that each person try and find out the triggers for their asthma. Importantly, once this is known remove yourself from the triggers. Information is power. Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues. waykam@yahoo.com @WayneCamo © #WorldAsthmaDay

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