Pakistan joined the global community in observing World Asthma Day on Tuesday, with a series of national events and initiatives dedicated to raising awareness about asthma and its management.
This year’s theme, “Asthma Education Empowers,” highlighted the importance of educating individuals with asthma on how to effectively manage their condition. Across the country, hospitals, and health organizations offered free screenings, lung function tests, and awareness campaigns to address the chronic respiratory illness affecting millions worldwide.
Utilizing social media platforms, medical professionals disseminated resources and information, urging those experiencing asthmatic symptoms to seek proper healthcare guidance.
Dr. Azhar Khan, a pulmonologist at Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi, emphasized the prevalence of asthma in Pakistan, affecting approximately 15 million people. Stressing the importance of awareness and education, he asserted, “Asthma is a treatable condition, but it requires proper management and treatment.”
In Islamabad, a walk for asthma awareness was organized, aiming to educate the public on asthma care and treatment. Senior Consultant Chest Physician Dr. Waqas Rasheed highlighted that over 12% of students in Pakistan suffer from asthma, addressing misconceptions surrounding the illness.
In Multan, the Nishtar Medical University Department of Pulmonology conducted an awareness walk and lecture, led by Dr. Azam Mushtaq. Participants, including medical experts, nurses, and students, emphasized the significance of seeking timely medical assistance upon experiencing symptoms.
Experts emphasized that with proper treatment, individuals with asthma can lead normal lives. They stressed the importance of adhering to medication schedules to control the illness effectively.
Meanwhile, in the Sargodha area, specialist Dr. Sikandar Hayat Warraich provided free examinations, lung tests, and medication to asthma patients. Dr. Warraich highlighted the challenges faced by patients with allergies and asthma during the wheat harvesting season, leading to deteriorating air quality.
As Pakistan observed World Asthma Day, the nation reaffirmed its commitment to raising awareness, dispelling myths, and ensuring access to proper healthcare for individuals living with asthma.
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