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'Asthma needs to be managed better'

“Medicines can help in managing the condition and doctors here are prescribing regardless of the treatment guidelines,” said Dr Hala Marouf, consultant paediatrician at Al Baraha Hospital, Ministry of Health.

On the occasion of the World Asthma Day on May 8, Al Baraha Hospital hosted an open day for the public with free sessions on how to manage asthma. A total of 13 interns have received training to raise public awareness on the disease that roughly affects 13-15 per cent of the UAE population.

According to studies conducted in the UAE, one in eight adults and approximately 13 per cent of children between the ages of 6-13 suffer from this chronic respiratory condition. Another study revealed that during 2010, half of the children and almost one-fifth of the adults missed school or work due to their condition. The same study also reported that 64 per cent of patients experienced sudden and severe asthma attacks during the year.

“Asthma is responsible for one in 250 deaths worldwide, most of which are completely preventable. Proper management and control is the key to ensuring asthma patients enjoy a long and fulfilling life, and this was the objective of our open day – to educate the public on the importance of being disciplined when managing their condition, being aware of the triggers and being prepared for any situation,” said Dr Osama Younis AttarBashi, consultant paediatrician and neonatologist, Head of Paediatric Department, Al Baraha Hospital, and President of the World Asthma Day Organising Committee.

In the UAE, allergens like dust mites in humid areas and non-organic dust, such as from sandstorms, are triggers that asthmatics need to be aware of and try to avoid. The cold weather, although not as extreme as other countries, can also be a concern, as well as infections such as the common cold that spreads when the weather changes. Dr Hala added: “Respiratory conditions may seem restricting initially, but with proper control and management patients can continue to engage in day-to-day activities without the fear of an attack. In the case of children with milder forms of asthma, if managed well, they can outgrow their symptoms with age.”

Dr Hunaid Zakiuddin, an intern, said that the asthma training would be beneficial in his future choice of specialisation (surgery). “This is an opportunity to give something back to the community,” he added.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com