World Asthma Day

World Asthma Day is a global initiative orchestrated by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) to raise awareness and improve care for individuals suffering from this chronic respiratory disease. Asthma, characterised by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, affects an estimated 339 million people worldwide. The aim of World Asthma Day is to bring attention to this prevalent health condition, support individuals who live with it daily, and facilitate advancements in research, care, and potential prevention methods. It is a day to promote understanding of asthma globally and path solutions to issues of accessibility to treatment and medication.

The observance of World Asthma Day began in 1998 in more than 35 countries and the United Kingdom has consistently participated in this global initiative. For the people of the UK, this day brings particular pertinence; the Asthma UK Charity approximates around 5.4 million people have asthma, inferring the Uk has amongst the highest prevalence rates for asthma in Europe. The direct impact on healthcare is significant, with the NHS spending around £1 billion annually on asthma care. World Asthma Day is thus vital in promoting awareness across the UK, encouraging ongoing research and continuous improvement in healthcare and support.

In the UK, World Asthma Day is typically observed through a series of events both physical and digital, from professional conferences and workshops to community-led virtual webinars building public awareness and empathy. These events focus on educating people about the disease, promoting understanding of its triggers, and offering practical advice on managing day-to-day life. These activities are typically supported by the British Lung Foundation, Asthma UK, and National Health Service (NHS), amongst other local health organizations and charities. Whilst participation in larger international events takes place virtually, local events around the UK create a national network of support and shared understanding. World Asthma Day is observed annually on the first Tuesday in May.