This World Asthma Awareness month, Cipla launched its general patient & public awareness initiative – ‘Tuffies’ – directing more targeted awareness on improving respiratory care amongst children, especially those living with asthma. A widespread non-communicable disease, asthma is the most common chronic condition among children affecting nearly 7.9% of Indian children, with about 80% of asthmatics experiencing symptoms during the first 6 years of their life. Insufficient awareness about the disease, misconceptions and perceived myths associated with its cornerstone treatment i.e. inhalation therapy have resulted in many cases of asthma going undiagnosed and even untreated. All this ultimately results in poor control of asthma, leading to a significantly impacted quality of life that includes frequent hospitalisations and missed school days
Highlighting the importance of raising awareness about paediatric asthma through campaigns like ‘Tuffies’ Dr. Suresh Natarajan, Senior Consultant Paediatric Allergist & Pulmonologist, Chennai said, “Paediatric asthma can be a distressing condition for both the child and its family. It is a chronic condition that requires ongoing and often intensive management to keep symptoms under control. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help reduce the frequency as well as severity of the condition. However, misunderstandings about the disease as well as its most widely used and recommended treatment i.e., inhalation therapy have led to parents often concealing the condition including for societal reasons, putting off treatment until symptoms worsen. This ultimately results in the insufficient management of the condition as well as a reduced quality of life, that includes frequent hospitalizations and missed school days. Campaigns like ‘Tuffies’ are important to combat the stigma and create a more supportive environment for children with asthma to thrive.”
Adding on, Dr. Narmadha Ashok, Paediatrician, Chennai said, “It is important for parents and caregivers to work closely with their child's healthcare provider to ensure that they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to adhere to the best -suited asthma management strategies. It is crucial to raise awareness about the true impact of asthma on children's lives and to dispel any myths or misconceptions about the disease as well as its recommended method of treatment. By doing so, we can empower families to seek the necessary care and support for their children to reach their full potential.”