Asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory condition characterized by hallmark symptoms of intermittent dyspnea, cough, and wheezing.
A confirmed diagnosis of asthma relies on consistent respiratory symptoms and the identification of variable expiratory airflow obstruction documented on spirometry.
Early recognition and intervention of asthma exacerbations are crucial to prevent the progression of asthma to severe, life-threatening stages
Asthma control medications reduce airway inflammation and help to prevent asthma symptoms; among these, inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the mainstay in the treatment of asthma, whereas quick-relief (reliever) or rescue medicines quickly ease symptoms that may arise acutely.
Among these, short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) rapidly reduce airway bronchoconstriction (causing relaxation of airway smooth muscles).
Even in high income countries, high costs can mean that many people with asthma have limited access to essential inhaled medicines, resulting in poorly controlled asthma and preventable asthma deaths.
Policy makers, governments, payers, pharmaceutical industry manufacturers and suppliers are called upon to increase their awareness of the continuing preventable morbidity and mortality associated with asthma in spite of the existence of evidence based, highly effective management of asthma.
We call on everyone to increase their efforts to “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL”, in all countries throughout the world.