World Asthma Day

World Asthma Day History

World Asthma Day aims to raise awareness and improve care for individuals suffering from the chronic respiratory disease. Asthma, characterised by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, affects an estimated 339 million people worldwide. This day also brings attention to the prevalent health condition, support individuals who live with it daily, and facilitate advancements in research, care, and potential prevention methods.

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.

Facts about World Asthma Day

• The theme for World Asthma Day in 2024 Asthma Education Empowers.
  In 2023, the theme was Asthma care for All.
• According to the CDC, in 2023, 7.7% of Americans have asthma, roughly 45 million people.
  According to the National Library of Medicine, in 2022, approximately 300 million people worldwide have asthma.
• The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of Asthma prevalence in Europe. According to the Office for National Statistics, one in five households in the UK has someone living with asthma.
• The economic cost of asthma in the UK is one of the highest in Europe. It's reported that asthma costs the NHS in the UK at least £1.1 billion each year, this takes into account hospital admissions, GP visits, and prescriptions.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Asthma Day

Top things to do in the UK for World Asthma Day

• Read about an interview with a school girl with asthma.
• Watch this video on what happens during an extreme asthma attack.
• Check out your local Asthma Charity Events. Many asthma charities in the UK organize fundraising events such as sponsored walks, runs, and cycle rides on this day to raise awareness about asthma.
• Attend the International Conference on Asthma and Allergy located in Edinburgh. This annual conference brings together professionals, researchers, and policy-makers to discuss the latest developments in asthma research and management.