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Asthma

 Boy breathing in a bronchodilator inhaler
WHO/M.Kokic

Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, which vary in severity and frequency from person to person. During an asthma attack, the lining of the bronchial tubes swells, causing the airways to narrow and reducing the flow of air into and out of the lungs.

The causes of asthma are not completely understood. However, risk factors for developing asthma include inhaling asthma “triggers”, such as allergens, tobacco smoke and chemical irritants. Asthma cannot be cured, but appropriate management can control the disorder and enable people to enjoy a good quality of life.


GENERAL INFORMATION

Fact sheet on asthma

Q&A: What triggers an asthma attack?

MULTIMEDIA

A painting about living with asthma
10 facts about asthma

WHO PROGRAMMES AND ACTIVITIES

Department of Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion

Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Asthma

PUBLICATIONS

Prevention of allergy and allergic asthma [pdf 384kb]

RELATED TOPICS

Air pollution

Chronic diseases

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Respiratory tract diseases

Tobacco


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