Asthma Facts

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways, including an airflow limitation, which is often reversible. It affects children and adults of all ages. Chronically inflamed airways are hyperresponsive; they become obstructed and airflow is limited (by bronchoconstriction, mucus plugs, and increased inflammation) when airways are exposed to various risk factors.
Common risk factors include exposure to allergens such as domestic dust mites, animals with fur, cockroaches, pollens and moulds, occupational irritants, tobacco smoke, air pollution, respiratory (viral) infections, exercise, chemical irritants and drugs (such as aspirin and beta blockers).
Asthma attacks (or exacerbations) are episodic, but airway inflammation is chronically present. For many patients, medication must be taken every day to control symptoms, improve lung function, and prevent attacks. Medications may also be required to relieve acute symptoms, such as wheezing, chest tightness, and cough.
Estimated 300 million people suffer from asthma; 255.000 people died from asthma in 2005.
The prevalence of asthma is increasing, especially in children.
In the UK the prevalence of asthma in adults is estimated as 10-13 %.
In Australia, New Zealand and the UK, the prevalence of asthma in children is estimated as 27 – 30 %.
The burden of asthma for patients is huge; it is restricting their whole life.
The total annual costs of asthma in Europe are approximately 21 billion USD.