KARACHI: Sharing concerns over the rising number of asthma cases in the country and the need for customising treatment regimens to individual needs, speakers at a seminar shared that around 11.6 per cent schoolchildren suffered from the respiratory illness in Pakistan.

The programme on asthma presentation and management was organised by the continuing medical education (CME) department of Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) on Friday.

Visiting scholar from the United States Dr Ahmareen Khan, also a Sindh Medical College alumna pulmonologist, emphasised the importance of tailoring treatment plans specifically for asthmatic patients.

“Asthma is a preventable disease, and by customising treatment regimens to individual patient needs, we can strive towards better outcomes,” Dr Khan said.

According to her, it’s crucial to consider a patient’s medical history, conduct lung function tests and assess symptoms, such as recurrent coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, while diagnosing asthma.

Dr Khan underscored the importance of setting treatment goals, preventing exacerbations leading to emergency room visits or hospital admissions, safeguarding lung function, and optimising pharmacotherapy with minimal adverse events.

In his remarks, JSMU Vice Chancellor Prof Amjad Siraj Memon said that asthma should not be looked at as an illness containing human activities but rather as a reminder to breathe deeper and live stronger.

With advancements in treatment and management, one could empower individuals to take control of their condition and unlock their full potential, he added.

Explaining the need and relevance of the seminar to the audience, Director-CME Dr Rahat Naz shared there were around 10 million asthma patients and approximately 11.6pc of schoolchildren in Pakistan were affected by asthma.

“As we gather here today, we are not just discussing a disease, we are talking about the lives of millions of Pakistanis, including our children, who deserve to breathe easy and live a life free from the grip of asthma.

“Let us work together to create a future where every individual can thrive, without the constraints of asthma holding them back,” Dr Rahat noted.

JSMU Pro Vice Chancellor Prof Saadia Akram presented a token of appreciation to Dr Ahmareen Khan.

The seminar concluded with a question-answer session, giving attendees the opportunity to seek valuable advice and clarification on asthma management and treatment strategies.

Published in Dawn, May 5th, 2024