Asthma
WHO / Marko Kokic
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Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, which vary in severity and frequency from person to person. Symptoms may occur several times in a day or week in affected individuals, and for some people become worse during physical activity or at night.
quick asthma facts
According to WHO estimates, 300 million people suffer from asthma and 255 000 people died of asthma in 2005.
Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children.
Asthma is not just a public health problem for high income countries: it occurs in all countries regardless of level of development. Over 80% of asthma deaths occurs in low and lower-middle income countries.
Asthma is under-diagnosed and under-treated, creating a substantial burden to individuals and families and possibly restricting individuals’ activities for a lifetime.
What is an asthma attack?
During an asthma attack, the lining of the bronchial tubes swell, causing the airways to narrow and reducing the flow of air into and out of the lungs. Recurrent asthma symptoms frequently cause sleeplessness, daytime fatigue, reduced activity levels and school and work absenteeism. Asthma has a relatively low fatality rate compared to other chronic diseases, nonetheless 255.000 people died of asthma in 2005.
The causes
How to reduce the asthma burden?
WHO Role and Activities
the faces of asthma
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