Good [morning/afternoon/evening], everyone.
Today, I have the privilege of talking about a topic that touches the lives of millions of people around the world – asthma. And more importantly, we gather here today to mark World Asthma Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about this chronic respiratory condition and supporting those who live with it.
World Asthma Day is observed annually on the first Tuesday of May, and it was established by the Global Initiative for Asthma, or GINA, to promote better understanding and management of asthma. The purpose of this day is to bring attention to the significance of early diagnosis, proper treatment, and the importance of environmental factors in managing asthma symptoms.
But first, let’s take a moment to understand what asthma really is.
Asthma is a chronic disease of the lungs. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. When someone has asthma, even simple activities like running or climbing stairs can trigger shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, or coughing. The severity of asthma varies from person to person. For some, it’s a mild inconvenience, but for others, it can be life-threatening.
Around the world, over 300 million people suffer from asthma, and its prevalence is rising. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that asthma is one of the leading causes of disability and mortality worldwide. Despite the fact that it is a well-known condition, asthma remains underdiagnosed and undertreated in many parts of the world.
This is where World Asthma Day plays a crucial role. It’s more than just raising awareness – it’s about encouraging action. Each year, the theme of World Asthma Day focuses on new challenges, treatments, and emerging trends in asthma care. The theme for this year is “Asthma Care for All”, highlighting the urgent need for equitable access to asthma care worldwide.
This is particularly important because many individuals in low-income countries still struggle to access the medications they need to manage their asthma effectively. Simple treatments like inhalers and nebulizers can be lifesaving, yet they remain out of reach for many. World Asthma Day reminds us that asthma care should not be a privilege—it must be accessible to everyone.
Now, let’s talk about what it means to live with asthma. Imagine, for a moment, that every single day you struggle with something as basic as breathing. For people with asthma, each breath is precious. Even a minor physical activity can trigger an asthma attack, which can be both frightening and exhausting.
But, living with asthma doesn’t mean giving up. With the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, people can lead full, active lives. That’s why World Asthma Day is also about showing support and solidarity for those affected by asthma. It’s about making sure that no one feels alone in their struggle with this condition.
Prevention and management are key when it comes to asthma. While asthma cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed. The most common treatment is the use of inhalers, which deliver medication directly to the lungs, reducing inflammation and opening up the airways.
Along with medication, lifestyle changes can help keep asthma under control. For example, avoiding known triggers such as dust, smoke, or pollen can significantly reduce the risk of an asthma attack. And for those living in polluted areas, efforts to improve air quality can make a huge difference in managing asthma symptoms.
But it’s not just about the individual. Communities, healthcare professionals, and governments all have a role to play in managing asthma. By educating people about the condition and ensuring access to medications, we can improve the lives of millions.
As we observe World Asthma Day today, let’s not forget that asthma isn’t just a medical condition—it’s a challenge that affects families, communities, and economies. But it’s a challenge that we can overcome, together. By raising awareness, advocating for better access to care, and ensuring that everyone has the resources they need to manage asthma effectively, we can make a real difference.
So, let’s come together today—not just to mark a day on the calendar, but to push for a world where asthma care is available for all, where no one is left behind, and where asthma doesn’t limit the potential of anyone.
Thank you.