World Asthma Day: Understanding How Pollution, Climate Change, and Lifestyle Choices are Driving India’s Asthma Crisis

Asthma affects over 262 million people globally, posing a significant public health challenge. In India, about 34.3 million people suffer from this condition, making up around 13% of the world’s asthma cases, according to a 2019 Global Burden of Disease report.

This chronic respiratory disease occurs when airways become inflamed and overly sensitive. Common triggers include high pollution levels, dust, and smoke, making it challenging to breathe. Symptoms can include coughing, wheezing, and even severe asthma attacks requiring medical attention. Poor air quality not only worsens asthma but can also contribute to conditions like COPD and lung cancer.

Pollution’s Impact: While pollution may not directly cause asthma, it can significantly exacerbate symptoms. In India, where air pollution levels often exceed safe limits, about 9 in 10 people inhale polluted air, according to the WHO. Indoor air quality also matters, as cooking smoke, mold, and dust can worsen asthma, especially in poorly ventilated homes.

Weather Changes: Shifts in weather can aggravate asthma. Sudden cold, heat, or humidity can irritate the lungs and trigger inflammation. For instance, cold air can narrow airways, while hot, humid weather can increase allergens in the air. A phenomenon called “thunderstorm asthma” occurs during storms when pollen breaks into small particles, triggering sudden attacks even in those without asthma.

Lifestyle Factors: Urbanization brings rising dust and pollution from construction, worsening asthma symptoms, particularly in vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. Lifestyle changes, such as poor diets and lack of exercise, along with high tobacco use (27% of the Indian population) and increasing e-cigarette consumption, further add to respiratory health risks.

Expert Insight: Dr. Swami Pawar, a pulmonologist from Mumbai, emphasizes the importance of managing asthma effectively. Regular consultations with healthcare providers can help identify triggers and establish personalized action plans. Inhalers play a crucial role in treatment, delivering medication directly to the lungs. Understanding proper use is vital for effective management.

Proactive Steps for Management: Here are some essential steps for living with asthma:

• Consult a doctor to learn about specific triggers.
• Use inhalers as directed—both daily control inhalers and rescue inhalers for immediate relief.
• Avoid outdoor activities on high-pollution days, wear masks, and stay hydrated.

By taking these steps, individuals can better manage their asthma, especially as air quality continues to decline. Staying informed and proactive is key.

For further reading on asthma management and pollution’s effects on health, you can refer to the World Health Organization

page on air pollution and health.

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