Expressnews
Marked by the GINA (the Global Initiative for Asthma) theme of “Make Inhaled Treatment Accessible for All,” this year’s World Asthma Day comes at a crucial moment in India’s public health journey. Asthma and other chronic respiratory diseases rank among the top three contributors to Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) related deaths, which account for over half of all fatalities nationwide. 4 Yet, nearly 70% of individuals with severe asthma symptoms remain undiagnosed, and fewer than 2.5% use inhaled corticosteroids daily i.e. the recommended treatment, often due to widespread stigma and misconceptions.2 Tackling these challenges requires a long-term, collaborative approach that integrates awareness, education, and access.
Public-facing
campaigns like Cipla’s Berok Zindagi that’s been running for more than half a decade and Tuffies, alongside the company’s Breathefree initiative – which has touched more than 1CR lives in FY 24-25 alone, are helping drive informed conversations around asthma while providing continued patient support.
Emphasizing the importance of inhalation therapy and the need for accessible treatment, Dr. Praveen Valsalan, Pulmonologist, Kochi said: “The primary goals of asthma management are to control symptoms, reduce dependence on rescue medication, prevent hospitalizations, and preserve lung function—ultimately improving quality of life. Achieving these outcomes requires timely diagnosis, correct inhaler use, and consistent adherence.
Unfortunately, these areas are often hindered by poor device technique, limited access to care, and a lack of long-term support. 5, 1 Initiatives like Breathefree have been instrumental in bringing these gaps through on-ground screening camps, online tools like the Digital Educator platform, and simple ‘how-to’ device training videos. These resources make a real difference in guiding patients and caregivers toward better asthma control.”
