WHO shares 5 ways to keep your asthma under control

Asthma is one of the most common respiratory conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 262 million cases were recorded in 2019, with nearly half a million deaths reported annually.

While asthma cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed with the right treatment, allowing people with the condition to lead normal lives.

WHO includes inhalers (bronchodilators and steroids) in its list of essential medicines for asthma treatment. These inhalers should be easily accessible to patients across the world.

In May 2023, the global health body outlined five key tips to help individuals manage their asthma effectively:

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1. Recognise your symptoms

If you’re coughing, wheezing, or finding it hard to breathe, your asthma may be poorly controlled. When your symptoms worsen, follow your doctor’s instructions and use a reliever inhaler (like salbutamol) with a spacer to open your airways.

2. Know and avoid your triggers

Common asthma triggers include smoke, strong smells, pollen, dust, viral infections, changes in weather, animal fur, and feathers. Try your best to stay away from these triggers. If you can’t avoid them, always have your reliever inhaler on hand.

3. Understand your inhalers

A reliever inhaler (bronchodilator) opens the airways, making it easier for air to flow in and out of your lungs. This should be used when symptoms arise. A steroid inhaler reduces inflammation in the lungs and should be used regularly as directed by your doctor to help prevent severe asthma attacks. Inhalers are the most effective treatment for the condition and help people live active, normal lives.

4. Use a spacer

A spacer is a plastic chamber that connects to your inhaler. It helps ensure the medicine reaches your lungs properly. The spacer also makes it easier to coordinate breathing and pressing the inhaler. Without a spacer, medicine might stay in your mouth or throat, which makes it less effective. Some inhalers, like dry powder ones, don’t need a spacer, so ask your doctor if you’re unsure.

5. Take charge of your health

Knowledge is power! Learn from your doctor how your inhaler works and how to use it properly. Also, ensure your family and friends know how to help you if your asthma flares up. By using your inhaler as soon as your symptoms start, you can prevent serious attacks.

WHO’s fight against asthma

The World Health Organisation is working with countries to ensure asthma treatments are part of universal health coverage. Their focus is on making essential inhalers available to everyone with asthma, especially in poorer countries.

Director of WHO’s Noncommunicable Diseases Department, Dr Bente Mikkelsen, stated, “It is alarming that people are suffering from asthma symptoms that can be easily prevented with the right inhalers. We need to do more to ensure universal health coverage and achieve our health goals.”

WHO’s survey showed that in lower-income countries, only 60% have access to bronchodilator inhalers, and just 40% have access to steroid inhalers.

WHO also leads the Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases (GARD) to reduce the global burden of asthma and similar conditions, with a focus on solving these inequalities.

By following these steps and ensuring proper access to treatment, asthma patients can live healthier, more comfortable lives.