District-wide awareness campaign on asthma prevention

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

On the occasion of World Asthma Day, observed on the first Tuesday of May, a district-wide awareness campaign will be conducted focusing on asthma prevention, early diagnosis, and proper treatment, informed Zilla Parishad chief executive officer Minnu P.M.

The district health department has made facilities available for asthma screening, treatment, and guidance at primary health centres, sub-centres, and urban health centres. Citizens are urged to make maximum use of these services. District health officer Dr Abhay Dhanorkar appealed that people should not delay medical check-ups if they experience breathing-related issues and must follow proper treatment as advised by doctors. Every year, the Global Initiative for Asthma observes World Asthma Day on the first Tuesday of May.

Asthma is a condition influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, and individuals with a family history of asthma are at a higher risk. Additionally, triggers such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, dust particles, and pollen can aggravate respiratory problems. Since the symptoms of asthma are often mild in the early stages, they are frequently ignored, leading to delayed diagnosis. Dr Abhay Dhanorkar emphasised the need to eliminate misconceptions about asthma, adopt a scientific approach, control tobacco use, and maintain a clean, pollution-free environment.