World Asthma Day 2026
Asthma and Lifestyle: Living Well with the Condition
Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways but can be well managed with the right knowledge and care.
Globally, asthma affects over 260 million people and causes more than 450,000 deaths each year. Majority of these deaths occur in low‑ and middle‑income countries where access to inhaled medicines is limited.
In Africa, asthma affects an estimated 100 million people. High asthma‑related deaths are due to under‑diagnosis and poor access to anti‑inflammatory inhalers.
In Kenya, asthma affects around 10% of the population, 4 million people. It is a leading cause of chronic illness in children and contributes significantly to school absenteeism, lost productivity, repeated hospital visits, and financial strain on families.
For those affected, daily life depends on access to the right medication, particularly anti‑inflammatory inhalers which help to:
- Reduce airway swelling
- Prevent frequent and severe symptoms
- Lower the risk of emergency attacks and hospitalisation
Without access to these essential medicines, asthma symptoms can escalate rapidly, turning a manageable condition into a medical emergency.
Common asthma triggers include:
- Dust and dust mites: Common household triggers found in bedding, carpets, and furniture.
- Pollen and seasonal allergens: Tree, grass, and weed pollen can worsen symptoms during certain seasons.
- Smoke: Cigarette smoke, fire smoke, and strong fumes can irritate the airways.
- Cold air and weather changes: Cold or sudden temperature changes can make breathing more difficult.
- Exercise: Physical activity may trigger symptoms in some people if asthma is not well managed.
- Strong odours and chemicals: Perfumes, cleaning products, and fumes can irritate the lungs.
- Respiratory infections: Colds and flu often worsen asthma symptoms.
Managing asthma is not only about medication, it is also about creating a lifestyle that supports healthy breathing and reduces flare-ups.
- Staying active – Regular physical activity like walking, swimming, or cycling are beneficial for lung health with the right guidance.
- Managing stress – Stress and strong emotions can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or gentle yoga can help keep both the mind and body calm.
- Healthy home environment – Creating an asthma-friendly home includes reducing dust, avoiding smoking indoors, ensuring good ventilation, and keeping humidity levels balanced to prevent mould growth.
- Nutrition – While no specific food cures asthma, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall immune health. Staying hydrated also helps keep airways moist and easier to manage.
- Monitoring and Planning –, recognizing early warning signs and understanding when to seek medical help as well as regular check-ups help ensure treatment remains effective.
- Managing weather – Adjusting routines during cold weather, high pollution days, or pollen-heavy seasons as well as planning activities accordingly can help prevent flare-ups.
What to Do During an Asthma Emergency
Knowing how to respond during an asthma attack can save a life. If someone is struggling to breathe:
- Help them sit upright and encourage them to stay calm
- Give 4 separate puffs of a reliever inhaler
- After each puff, encourage 4 slow, steady breaths
- Repeat every 4 minutes if symptoms persist
- Continue until emergency medical help arrives
And you don’t have to do it alone.
Jubilee Health is here to support you—every step of the way.
Because every breath matters.
Today, and every day.
Jubilee Health — Always With You