The Nigerian Thoracic Society is urging individuals with asthma to take charge of their condition to enhance their overall well-being. According to the NTS, managing their health effectively will enable them to access reliable information about their condition, leading to better outcomes.
In a joint statement by President Prof Musa Babashani and Secretary Dr Abiona Odeyemi to commemorate World Asthma Day 2024, the organization emphasized the importance of raising awareness about asthma’s global impact.
Wakadaily learnt that, World Asthma Day, observed on the first Tuesday in May, aims to educate and empower individuals affected by the condition, with this year’s theme being “Asthma Education Empowers.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that asthma is a significant non-communicable disease affecting both children and adults, with an estimated 262 million cases and 455,000 fatalities reported in 2019.
The WHO also highlights that asthma often goes undiagnosed and undertreated, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The NTS stresses the importance of supporting and educating individuals with this chronic respiratory condition.
The statement partly read, “This day aims to encourage people to take control of their asthma and improve their overall quality of life through proper management and treatment. By spreading information and resources, World Asthma Day plays a crucial role in promoting asthma awareness and fostering a healthier global community.
“This year’s theme, ‘Asthma Education Empowers’, encourages individuals to take control of their asthma and improve their quality of life. It also highlights the importance of educating individuals on how to properly manage their symptoms and prevent attacks.
“The importance of raising awareness about asthma and educating the public cannot be understated. Asthma is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet many individuals may not have access to the necessary information and resources to effectively manage their symptoms.
“By promoting awareness and education, we can help individuals better understand their condition, recognise triggers, and take proactive steps to prevent exacerbations. Ultimately, by empowering individuals with the tools they need to manage their asthma, we can work towards improving overall health outcomes and reducing the impact of asthma on individuals’ daily lives.”
The Nigerian Thoracic Society (NTS) is a specialized body committed to enhancing the respiratory well-being of Nigerians, with a particular emphasis on asthma management.
The society seeks to empower healthcare professionals and patients through education, resources, and support. By forging alliances with medical experts, researchers, and policymakers, the NTS endeavors to increase awareness about asthma, champion access to high-quality care for all, and promote timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
Additionally, the society strives to prevent long-term asthma complications and enhance patients’ overall quality of life through early detection and proper disease management.
