On World Asthma Day health experts and global organisations are calling for urgent action to make asthma treatment accessible to all.
With over 250 million people living with asthma globally, the spotlight is on the lack of access to affordable, quality-assured inhaled medicines – a problem that continues to cost lives despite decades of clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness.
The Global Asthma Network (GAN) marked the day with the launch of the Global Asthma Report, patient stories, a collection of first-hand accounts revealing the daily struggles of people living with asthma.
The report highlights the benefits of timely diagnosis and treatment while underscoring the tragic consequences of systemic delays and medicine shortages.
“By prioritising equitable access to medicines and strengthening primary healthcare systems, countries can not only meet global NCD targets but also enjoy significant economic and social returns,” said José Luis Castro, the World Health Organisation’s Director General’s Special Envoy for Chronic Respiratory Diseases.
Locally, City Health reported that between May last year and April this year, its clinics issued 8 912 inhalers for acute care and 34 431 for chronic asthma treatment. Despite these efforts, incorrect inhaler use remains one of the most common challenges.
“We are heading into winter, when asthma symptoms typically worsen, so now is the time to make sure that you are protected,” said Francine Higham, Mayco member for community services and health. She added that both adults and children often misuse inhalers, compromising their treatment outcomes.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has included asthma inhalers in its Model List of Essential Medicines and is working through the Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases alongside partners such as GAN, the Forum of International Respiratory Societies, and the Global Initiative for Asthma to strengthen country-level policies.
The Forum of International Respiratory Societies has also launched a campaign urging global leaders to invest in solutions that ensure access to inhaled treatments for all.
Dr Sarah Rylance, WHO’s technical lead for chronic respiratory diseases, stressed the importance of collaboration. “Together, we are amplifying critical evidence-based messages and driving progress to ensure that every person with asthma, no matter where they live, can breathe freely,” she said.
As asthma remains the most common chronic illness among children in South Africa, health authorities continue to encourage the public to seek medical guidance, avoid sharing inhalers and follow proper inhaler techniques. The WHO is currently updating global asthma treatment guidelines to support governments in strengthening their response.
