Campaign to create awareness about Asthma

By Our Staff Reporter

CHENNAI, APRIL 30. Asthma can kill even in its first attack. Yet, doctors refrain from diagnosing a child as asthmatic, when timely treatment can help in controlling the disease, said Dr.R. Sridharan, consultant, Asthma and Allergy Resource Centre, Chennai Kaliappa Hospital.

An awareness programme will be organised on May 3, the World Asthma Day, to address the various misconceptions and stigma associated with the disease. ``Asthma should be made an acceptable diagnosis,'' he said. ``Most children do not know they have asthma.''

According to a `peak exporatory flow rate' study conducted by the Centre, 18 per cent of school children in Chennai suffer from asthma, which correlates with a 16 per cent universal prevalence.

However, there were fewer asthmatics in the less developed countries, Dr.Sridharan said.

Asthma is chiefly triggered by aero and food allergens but 70 per cent of occurrence is genetic. Early introduction of multiple solids, giving whole cow milk or egg proteins to children below one year, could trigger childhood asthma. But doctors, ignorant of the consequences, advise this diet for children, he said.

The World Asthma Day would attempt to dispel the ignorance among people who do not perceive asthma as a major threat. It will also seek to dispel the misconceptions on the treatment of the disease.

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Section  : Southern States
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