Check Air Pollution To Contain Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions globally, with its prevalence steadily rising in both developed and developing countries. While medical advancements have improved asthma management, the focus on prevention has not kept pace. Preventing asthma requires a multifaceted approach that tackles environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors, starting from early childhood and extending to broader societal interventions.

Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic respiratory conditions, affecting an estimated 262 million people worldwide according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Despite significant advancements in understanding its pathology and management, asthma continues to pose a major public health challenge. The epidemiology of asthma is complex, shaped by a range of genetic, environmental, and socio-economic factors.

Genetic factors

Asthma prevalence varies widely between countries and regions, reflecting the influence of genetic factors and environmental conditions. Industrialised nations such as the United States, Australia, and the UK have historically reported higher rates of asthma, with 8–10 per cent of their populations affected. In contrast, developing countries, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia, report lower asthma prevalence rates. However, recent studies show an upward trend in asthma cases in these lower-income regions, likely due to increased urbanisation, pollution, and lifestyle changes.

Asthma disproportionately affects populations with lower socioeconomic status, both in developed and developing countries. In high-income nations, asthma is more common in lower-income communities due to factors like poor housing, high exposure to allergens (e.g., mold, dust mites), and air pollution. These communities also tend to have limited access to healthcare, resulting in higher rates of hospitalisations and mortality from asthma-related complications.

Globally, the economic burden of asthma is significant, particularly in terms of healthcare costs and lost productivity. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), asthma remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. The absence of robust healthcare systems and the lack of access to inhalers and other essential medications contribute to the severity of asthma outcomes in these regions. 

Environmental factors such as air pollution, smoking, and exposure to allergens play a critical role in asthma exacerbations. Indoor and outdoor air pollution, including particulate matter, vehicle emissions, and industrial pollutants, have been consistently linked to the rising incidence of asthma, particularly in urban settings. Additionally, climate change is expected to worsen asthma outcomes by increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and wildfires, which contribute to poor air quality.

One of the key opportunities for preventing asthma lies in early childhood, a period when the immune system is still developing. Studies suggest that asthma risk can be mitigated by fostering a healthy immune response during this critical window. Prenatal care, breastfeeding, and ensuring a balanced diet in infants can help strengthen a child’s immune system and potentially reduce asthma susceptibility.

Environmental factors are one of the most preventable contributors to asthma onset and exacerbations. Poor air quality, both indoors and outdoors, is strongly linked to the rising global asthma rates. Air pollutants like particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide that is commonly emitted by vehicles, industrial activities, and power plants also irritate the airways, triggering asthma symptoms. Addressing air pollution is a cornerstone of asthma prevention. Governments must adopt policies to reduce vehicular emissions, promote renewable energy, and regulate industrial pollution. Urban planning that prioritizes green spaces and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure can also reduce the air pollution burden, making cities healthier for residents.

Indoor air quality is equally important. Many people spend a significant portion of their time indoors, especially in cities. Common indoor asthma triggers include dust mites, mold, pet dander, and tobacco smoke. Maintaining clean indoor environments, using allergen-proof bedding, and addressing mold and moisture issues in homes can prevent asthma onset, particularly in children. 

Lifestyle factors play an essential role in asthma prevention. One of the most impactful lifestyle changes is reducing exposure to tobacco smoke. Smoking during pregnancy and exposure to secondhand smoke in infancy are strongly linked to asthma development in children. Public health campaigns that encourage quitting smoking and creating smoke-free environments are vital for asthma prevention.

Obesity is another major factor associated with asthma. Excess body weight can worsen asthma symptoms and increase the risk of developing the condition. Encouraging healthy diets and regular physical activity can help mitigate this risk.  Additionally, there is growing evidence linking diet and asthma. Diets rich in processed foods and low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to inflammation, increasing asthma risk. A diet high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, found in fruits, vegetables, and fish, may have protective effects. 

Education 

Education plays a pivotal role in asthma prevention. Raising awareness about the risk factors, early symptoms, and preventive measures can empower individuals to take control of their respiratory health. Healthcare providers should prioritize patient education on avoiding triggers, recognizing symptoms, and using medications properly to prevent asthma flare-ups. Schools, workplaces, and community organisations can also play a role by promoting asthma-friendly environments. Educating teachers, employers, and community leaders on asthma prevention and response can help reduce asthma-related incidents and ensure better outcomes for those at risk.

Asthma remains a significant global health issue, with complex epidemiological patterns influenced by genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. While progress has been made in managing asthma, more needs to be done to address health disparities, reduce environmental triggers, and ensure access to effective treatments. By focusing on these areas, we can reduce the global burden of asthma and improve quality of life for millions of people living with this chronic condition.

(Dr. Lohani is the executive director at the Health Concern. lohanis@gmail.com)