World Asthma Day is observed every year on May 6. It is an annual global event. Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that prevents patients from breathing properly. Every year, the event is organised by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) to increase awareness about the chronic respiratory disease asthma, its precautions, prevention, and care around the world. Nowadays, this disease is prevalent in children also.
About World Asthma Day
Asthma is a chronic lung disease and it is a long-term condition where the airways (the tunes that carry air to the lungs) swell and narrow. This swelling and narrowing can make it harder to breathe. It also leads to wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. Asthma impacts people of all ages, but it mostly starts in childhood.
Globally, it affects millions, leading to respiratory problems. Asthma is a major non-communicable disease with a significant global burden of illness and mortality. According to the reports of the World Health Organisation (WHO), approximately 235 million individuals are living with Asthma worldwide.
Cause of Asthma
The exact cause of Asthma is unknown, but it is triggered by environmental factors and can be influenced by genetics, allergies, and other factors. The possible triggers for this chronic disease could be infections and allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. Sometimes, physical activities can trigger the symptoms, and medication and stress could be the possible reasons. Some people are also predisposed to developing Asthma due to exposure to tobacco smoke and air pollution.
Origin of World Asthma Day
World Asthma Day was initiated by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), a World Health Organisation collaborative organisation, and first observed in 1998. The first event was held in Barcelona, Spain, where over 35 countries participated. Since then, it has been held annually on the first Tuesday of May.
