Dhaka: The increase in harmful particulate matter, dust, smoke, and chemicals in the air is leading to a rise in respiratory problems among children and the elderly, experts told a seminar today. They emphasized that asthma, a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, is becoming more prevalent. This condition can affect people of any age, including children, and both men and women. Although asthma is a lifelong disease, it can be managed effectively with proper and regular treatment, primarily through the use of inhalers.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the remarks were made during a seminar organized by the Department of Respiratory Medicine at the Evercare Hospital auditorium in the capital, marking World Asthma Day. The event was chaired by Dr. Ziaul Haque, Senior Consultant of the Department of Respiratory Medicine. Notable speakers included Dr. Kazi Saifuddin Bennoor, Director of the Bangladesh Medical Research Council (BMRC), and Dr. Arif Mahmud, Group Medical Director of Evercare Hospital.
Dr. S. M. Abdullah Al Mamun, Senior Consultant and Coordinator of the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Evercare Hospital, Dhaka, and Dr. Zafar Iqbal, Senior Consultant of the AICU and HDU departments, presented keynote papers. Dr. Mamun highlighted that climate change and air pollution are major contributors to the increasing number and severity of asthma cases worldwide. The rise in harmful particulate matter, dust, smoke, and chemical pollution in the air is causing increased respiratory problems among children and the elderly.
He further stated that to address this situation, it is crucial to control air pollution, raise awareness, and ensure accessible and effective advanced treatment for everyone. Dr. Saifuddin Bennoor explained that while breathing is a simple process for most, it is challenging for asthma patients, posing a significant difficulty.
Dr. Arif Mahmud emphasized that although asthma is a manageable chronic disease, many patients remain at risk. Therefore, ensuring the availability of inhalers for all asthma patients is essential to manage the condition effectively.