Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting 300 million people worldwide1, characterized by recurrent respiratory symptoms such as breathlessness, cough and wheezing as well as chest tightness. In normal conditions, the air is free to move within our lungs through a complex conductive system also called airways. In specific conditions and when asthmatic patient conditions are uncontrolled, the airways are more prone to inflammation, triggering an asthma attack.
Consequently, several changes occur including bronchoconstriction, thickening of the internal mucosa and plugging of small airways, which in turn make breathing more difficult. However, these clinical manifestations are basically reversible, although varying greatly over time or among patients. Generally, the asthmatic status tends to deteriorate during the night or the early hours of the morning. Although it is not possible to recover from asthma, optimal disease control is achievable, ensuring patients maintain an adequate quality of life.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ASTHMA, YOU CAN VISIT THE FOLLOWING PATIENT ASSOCIATION WEBSITES.
GAAPP (Global Allergy & Airways Patient Platform) is an umbrella organization working to support, empower, and advocate for patients with airway, allergic, and atopic conditions.
Since 2009, GAAPP has grown into a vibrant worldwide organization with more than 100 constituent members from every continent, sharing information and best practices, concerns, and hopes.
GAAPP's goals and objectives are based on the following four pillars: Awareness, Education, Advocacy, and Research.
EFA (The European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients’ Associations) is an independent non-profit organisation advocating to improve the lives of all people living with allergy and airways diseases.
AboutAsthma.org website from EFA, is a guide for asthma patients that provides general information for educational purposes only. It is mainly addressed to asthma patients and carers.
It is a valuable resource for navigating the condition more confidently and preparing for meaningful conversations with healthcare professionals.