KARACHI, May 4: Asthma prevalence among children in Pakistan has increased from nine to 20 per cent during last five years. However, children who take fruits and vegetables regularly in their diet have decreased chances of developing this deadly respiratory disorder later on in life.

Prevalence of asthma is on the rise all over the world due to Western lifestyle which includes adoption of Western dietary habits, smoking, atmospheric pollution, while allergies, viral infections, certain forms of exercises and emotions are common triggers for asthma.

This was stated by Prof. Javaid A. Khan (AKUH) and Dr. I.S Burki (Sindh Government Lyari General Hospital) while speaking at a joint press conference at Karachi Press Club here on Tuesday.

Stressing the importance of breast-feeding for prevention of asthma in children, they said children should be protected from tobacco smoke to prevent them from developing asthma.

"Despite promulgation of laws, according to which smoking is banned at public places in Pakistan, over 70 per cent children are getting exposed to passive smoking, which is endangering their health", they deplored.

They maintained that fruits and vegetables contain certain substances, which protect the lungs from damage caused by air pollution. Patients with asthma should eat a balanced diet, they said. Atmospheric pollution, smoking, changes in dietary habits and allergies are some of the reasons responsible for rise in asthma cases in Pakistan, they said. - PPI