Asthma Crisis in India: A Growing Public Health Concern
Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, affects over 262 million people globally, with India accounting for approximately 34.3 million cases, or 13% of the world’s total, according to the 2019 Global Burden of Disease report. Factors such as genetics, high pollution levels, and harmful environmental triggers exacerbate this condition, significantly raising the risk, especially among children.
The disease inflates the airways, making them hypersensitive. Exposure to pollutants like smog, dust, and smoke can provoke severe symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, and, in critical situations, hospital visits. Polluted air not only worsens asthma but can contribute to its development, alongside conditions like COPD and lung cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 90% of Indians breathe contaminated air, aggravating respiratory health.
Indoor air quality also plays a crucial role. Sources such as cooking smoke, mold, and dust mites, combined with poor ventilation in urban homes, compound the risk of asthma attacks. Extreme weather conditions, marked by fluctuations in temperature and humidity, further irritate the lungs, triggering inflammation and respiratory distress. A notable phenomenon called “thunderstorm asthma” can suddenly affect individuals, leading to asthma attacks due to a surge in inhalable pollen particles.
As urbanization progresses, the rising prevalence of construction dust and pollution poses additional threats, particularly to vulnerable demographics like children and the elderly. A lifestyle characterized by poor diet and inactivity, alongside high tobacco usage in India, further aggravates asthma symptoms.
To mitigate these risks, individuals are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals to develop personalized management plans, including the proper use of inhalers. Avoiding outdoor activity on high-pollution days and wearing protective masks can also help manage symptoms effectively.
(Dr. Swami Pawar is a Mumbai-based pulmonologist.)
Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the author and do not reflect NDTV’s stance.
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