Keeping asthma in check

Asthma is common in Bangladesh. An estimated 7 million people, including 4 million children, currently suffer from asthma-related symptoms in the country. In general, asthma is found to be more prevalent in children aged 5-14, compared to adults. Approximately, 80 per cent of all asthmatic patients report onset of disease before 6 years of age. Asthma symptoms include coughing (particularly at night), wheezing, and difficulty in breathing, chest pain, tightness or discomfort.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for asthma. But its symptoms can be reduced by following an asthma action plan that can be developed upon consulting physicians to track symptoms and adjust treatment. With proper treatment, even severe asthma can be kept under control.
The authorities concerned should organise health camps that will provide free checkups for the public to assess the severity of asthma among people. This will help a patient to get the right treatment, which can be started immediately upon diagnosis. On the other hand, patients should also be motivated to go for their scheduled follow-up to their respective doctors, at least at intervals of six months.

Sirazi Shahjahan,
Malibagh, Dhaka,
mshaju001@gmail.com