World Asthma Day: Focus on Prevention, Awareness, Proper Inhaler Use

 Anantapur: Every first Tuesday of May, the world comes together to observe World Asthma Day, raising awareness about one of the most common chronic respiratory diseases affecting millions globally. In 2025, the focus shifts to long-term control measures — prevention, trigger avoidance, proper inhaler technique, and medication adherence.

Understanding Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that causes episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. While asthma cannot be cured, it can be effectively controlled with the right approach.

Prevention Starts with Awareness

The key to preventing asthma attacks lies in identifying and avoiding personal triggers. Common triggers include:

Dust, pollen, and mold

Tobacco smoke

Strong smells, perfumes, and pollution

Respiratory infections

Cold air or sudden weather changes

Certain foods or food additives

Physical activity in some individuals (exercise-induced asthma)

Simple preventive steps — such as keeping the home dust-free, using air purifiers, wearing masks in polluted environments, and staying indoors during high pollen days — can significantly reduce flare-ups.

The Role of Inhalers: Small Devices, Big Impact

Inhalers are central to asthma management, but their effectiveness depends on proper usage. Studies show that over 60% of asthma patients use their inhalers incorrectly, leading to poor disease control.

Correct inhaler technique includes:

Shaking the inhaler before use (if required)

Sealing the lips tightly around the mouthpiece

Inhaling deeply and slowly while pressing the canister

Holding the breath for 10 seconds after inhalation

Rinsing the mouth after using steroid-containing inhalers

Regular training and reassessment of inhaler technique during clinic visits are essential for effective asthma management.

Medication Compliance: The Bridge to Better Control

Asthma treatment often involves controller medications (like inhaled corticosteroids) and reliever medications (like salbutamol). Many patients stop their controller medication once symptoms improve, increasing the risk of sudden attacks.

Daily compliance — even when symptom-free — is vital. Controller medications work silently to prevent inflammation and should not be discontinued without medical advice.

Take-Home Message

“On this World Asthma Day, let us emphasize not just treating asthma, but preventing it from controlling our lives. With the right education, lifestyle adjustments, and commitment to treatment, most people with asthma can lead completely normal and active lives,” observed Dr. Yasho Vardhan Mangisetty, Consultant Clinical and Interventional Pulmonologist & Allergy Specialist at KIMS Saveera, Anantapur.