MONITORING DESK: Severe asthma, impacting 5–10% of individuals with asthma, remains difficult to treat with standard therapies like inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators. This condition can lead to persistent symptoms, including breathlessness, coughing, and chest tightness, often disrupting daily activities and sleep.
The National Institutes of Health highlights that severe asthma can require higher doses of medications or oral corticosteroids, and it often puts patients at risk of complications like diminished lung function.
Experts recommend frequent medical consultations, personalized medication plans, and lifestyle modifications such as avoiding triggers like allergens and pollutants. Innovations in biologic therapies, which target specific inflammatory pathways, are offering hope for better management. For severe attacks, immediate hospital care is essential, as these episodes can be life-threatening if symptoms escalate rapidly.
With nearly 28 million asthma patients in the U.S., raising awareness about severe asthma's complexities is critical for improving outcomes and reducing health risks.
The situation in Pakistan
Asthma prevalence in Pakistan is rising, exacerbated by environmental and healthcare challenges. Studies estimate that 5% to 10% of the population suffers from asthma, with Karachi alone reporting high levels of dust pollution, a significant trigger for respiratory issues. Additionally, the high levels of air pollution and smog, particularly in cities like Lahore during winter, worsen asthma and allergy symptoms. Poor healthcare access further complicates management, leaving many undiagnosed or inadequately treated.
The burden on healthcare systems is significant, with asthma being one of the top respiratory diseases treated in outpatient settings. Moreover, Pakistan lacks widespread awareness campaigns, leading to misconceptions and late diagnoses.
Call for action
Efforts to combat asthma must include:
. Reducing air pollution by enforcing environmental regulations.
. Enhancing awareness campaigns to educate the public on symptoms and management.
. Improving healthcare infrastructure for better access to diagnostic and treatment facilities.
The issue underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to improve the quality of life for asthma patients in Pakistan and beyond.