A Guide to World Asthma Day 2023: Asthma Care For All
Asthma is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is also a very misunderstood condition and is often overlooked as being ‘minor’. Unfortunately, this is not the case as severe asthma causes thousands of deaths worldwide, even in the United Kingdom.
As we approach World Asthma Day 2023, it's important to take a moment to reflect on the impact this condition has on millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 339 million people suffer from asthma globally, making it one of the most common conditions. With such a significant number of individuals affected by asthma, it's crucial to continue raising awareness about this condition and finding ways to improve asthma management and treatment.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways which makes it difficult for people to breathe. The narrowing of the airways can also cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
What is World Asthma Day?
World Asthma Day is an annual awareness day that is organised by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Its main goal is to raise awareness about asthma and improve asthma care around the world. The event is held on the first Tuesday of May every year and aims to promote understanding of asthma and encourage individuals to take control of their asthma by seeking appropriate medical care.
Who organises World Asthma Day?
World Asthma Day is organised by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) which is a collaboration between healthcare professionals and public health officials from around the world. The GINA was founded in 1993 and works to raise awareness about asthma with an aim of improving asthma care and management worldwide.
What is the theme of World Asthma Day in 2023?
Every World Asthma Day has a theme, and this is exactly the case for World Asthma Day 2023. The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) sets a theme each year, and this year the theme is ‘Asthma care for All’. According to the GINA, “the Asthma care for All message promotes the development and implementation of effective asthma management programs in all resource countries.”
When is World Asthma Day in 2023?
World Asthma Day is always held at the same time each year on the first Tuesday of May. In 2023, the first Tuesday of May is the 2nd. This time of year was chosen as it coincides with the peak of asthma and allergy season in many parts of the world.
What is the history of World Asthma Day?
The history of World Asthma Day goes back over 25 years. The very first World Asthma Day was held in 1998 and has been held on the first Tuesday of May ever since. The purpose of World Asthma Day is to raise awareness about asthma and its management, to promote better asthma care, and to encourage governments and healthcare organisations to prioritise asthma management and research.
Each year, the GINA chooses a theme for World Asthma Day and produces educational materials and resources to help healthcare professionals and patients around the world raise awareness about asthma and its management. The themes for World Asthma Day have included "You Can Control Your Asthma" (2008), "It's Time to Control Asthma" (2013), and "Uncovering Asthma Misconceptions" (2021), among others.
Why is World Asthma Day important for raising awareness for asthma?
World Asthma Day is important for raising awareness of asthma because it brings attention to a condition that affects millions of people around the world. According to the World Health Organisation, asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases, affecting an estimated 235 million people globally. In the United Kingdom, it is approximated that over 5 million people suffer from asthma. This is why it is so important that awareness is raised for asthma.
Is there an asthma month?
Yes, there is also an Asthma Awareness Month. In the United Kingdom, the charity Asthma and Lung UK runs Asthma Awareness Month throughout the month of May. Its aims are similar to the aims of World Asthma Day, to raise awareness for asthma as a condition.
How can I observe World Asthma Day?
There are several ways to take part in World Asthma Day 2023:
Spread awareness: Share information about asthma and World Asthma Day on social media using the hashtag #WorldAsthmaDay. You can also share educational materials with your friends, family, or community.
Participate in events: Look for local events happening in your area that support asthma awareness and take part in them. This could include walks, runs, or other activities.
Donate: Consider making a donation to a reputable organisation that supports asthma research or provides resources to people with asthma, such as Asthma and Lung UK.
Which countries are most affected by asthma?
Asthma is a global health issue, but its prevalence and impact vary across different countries and regions. According to the Global Asthma Report 2018, the countries with the highest prevalence of asthma are:
Australia
United Kingdom
Ireland
New Zealand
Canada
How many adults in the UK have asthma?
Asthma and Lung UK, a leading asthma charity in the UK, estimates that there are approximately 4.8 million adults aged 18 and over living with asthma in the UK. This estimate suggests that asthma affects around 1 in 12 adults in the UK. Asthma can be a chronic and long-term condition that requires ongoing management and can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life.
How many children in the UK have asthma?
According to Asthma and Lung UK, around 1.3 million people under the age of 18 years old have asthma as of 2021. Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in children, and it can have a significant impact on a child's quality of life.
Is Asthma more common in men or women?
Asthma affects both men and women, but research suggests that it may be more common in women. According to the Global Asthma Report 2018, asthma is more prevalent in females than males across all age groups. However, the reasons for this gender difference are not well understood and may be related to hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors.
How many people die from Asthma in the UK?
Asthma can be a serious and life-threatening condition, but with proper management and treatment, most people with asthma can control their symptoms and avoid severe complications. According to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), there were 1,184 deaths from asthma in England and Wales in 2019. This represents a decrease from previous years, but asthma deaths remain a significant public health concern.
What treatments are available for Asthma?
There are a number of different treatment options that are available for people who suffer from asthma. Inhalers, such as Ventolin, Fostair, Luforbec and Salamol are amongst the most popular options. Medications in tablet form are also available, such as montelkuast.
Can you get asthma treatments online?
Yes, you can purchase a wide variety of different asthma medications online from UK Meds. Browse our full range to find the best treatment option for you.
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