Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, May 3: Asthma, a chronic and potentially life-threatening respiratory condition, is impacting between 5 to 10 percent of the population in Kashmir, mirroring global trends, doctors have warned. They are urging the public to take early symptoms seriously and adopt preventive measures against the disease, which, along with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), has emerged as the third leading cause of death worldwide.
Dr Tanvir Ahmad, a chest disease specialist, said chronic lung diseases like asthma and COPD are responsible for an estimated 4.5 lakh deaths globally each year. “Many of these deaths are preventable with timely intervention,” he said.
Dr Tanvir said that while manageable, asthma continues to pose a significant health burden, particularly in Kashmir, where approximately 8% of the adult population and a substantial number of children are affected. He added that asthma appears to affect women more than men, attributing this trend to environmental, genetic, and occupational factors.
In Kashmir, the cold climate, increasing pollution levels, frequent use of biomass for heating, and exposure to allergens have been identified as key contributors to the rising incidence of asthma, Dr Tanvir further explained.
Dr Khursheed Ahmad, another doctor, said early diagnosis and proper management can improve the quality of life for individuals with asthma. “Unfortunately, myths and social stigma still surround asthma, deterring people from seeking timely help,” he said. “Many fear using inhalers, thinking it shows weakness or dependency, which is absolutely untrue.”
He cautioned that if left untreated, asthma can lead to severe respiratory distress, permanent lung damage, or even death. “Delayed diagnosis or irregular medication use increases the risk of frequent hospitalisations and long-term complications.”
Comparing the situation globally, Dr Khursheed added, “India records ten times more deaths due to COPD than Western countries. This disparity is largely due to a lack of awareness, poor compliance with treatment, and limited access to specialised care.”
Dr Javid Ahmad echoed this concern, saying non-adherence to medications is one of the major reasons behind increasing fatalities. “People often stop using prescribed inhalers once they feel better, without understanding that asthma is a chronic condition requiring continuous management,” he said. “Inhalers are safe, effective, and have minimal side effects when used properly.”
Doctors identified several contributing factors to the rising burden of asthma in Kashmir, including cold and dry climate, which triggers bronchial inflammation; use of wood and coal for heating, leading to indoor air pollution; outdoor air pollution from vehicles and industrial activity; allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites; smoking, both active and passive, significantly worsening the condition and poor ventilation in homes, especially during winter.
They strongly advocate for increased public awareness and proactive health practices. They recommend timely diagnosis through spirometry and other tests; regular use of prescribed inhalers, especially corticosteroids; avoidance of known triggers, including smoke, dust, and cold air; proper home ventilation and use of air purifiers if necessary; vaccination against flu and pneumonia and education campaigns to remove stigma and myths.
Experts have urged the government and healthcare institutions to enhance asthma surveillance, promote screening, and incorporate asthma education in public health policy. “People living with asthma can lead normal, productive lives if they understand the disease and adhere to treatment,” doctors said, adding, “Awareness is the first step towards control.”
