World Asthma Day

Every year, World Asthma Day is observed on the first Tuesday of May. This global event aims to raise awareness about asthma and improve care for those affected by this chronic respiratory condition.​

History of World Asthma Day

World Asthma Day was first organized in 1998 by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), a collaborative organization established by the World Health Organization in 1993. The inaugural event was held with the first World Asthma Meeting in Barcelona, Spain, and was observed in more than 35 countries. Since then, it has grown to become one of the most important asthma awareness and education events globally.

Each year, GINA selects a theme to highlight specific aspects of asthma care and management. For instance, the theme for 2025 is “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL,” emphasizing the need to ensure that people with asthma can access inhaled medications essential for controlling the disease and treating attacks. ​¹

Why is World Asthma Day important?

Asthma affects over 260 million people worldwide and is responsible for more than 450,000 deaths annually, most of which are preventable. Despite being a common chronic condition, asthma is often underdiagnosed and inadequately managed, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to essential medications like inhaled corticosteroids is limited.

The WHO stresses that underdiagnosis and inadequate care remain major challenges.

Education is essential to help individuals understand what asthma is, how to properly use medications—especially inhalers—and how to avoid common triggers like tobacco smoke and air pollution. Personalized asthma action plans and accessible resources—delivered by healthcare workers, schools, or even digital apps—can greatly improve self-management.

The WHO also highlights that improving healthcare workers’ knowledge is vital. Misdiagnosis and outdated treatments are still common in many areas. Policy-makers must also prioritize affordable, essential tools—such as inhalers—that are still unavailable in some regions. ²

World Asthma Day serves as a platform to educate patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers about effective asthma management strategies. It emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis, regular monitoring, adherence to treatment plans, and the reduction of exposure to asthma triggers. By raising awareness and promoting education, the day aims to reduce the global burden of asthma and improve the quality of life for those living with the condition.​

• Highlights the global impact of asthma and the need for improved care.
• Promotes access to essential asthma medications worldwide.
• Encourages education on asthma management for patients and healthcare providers.
• Advocates for policies that support better asthma care and prevention.
• Fosters international collaboration to address asthma-related challenges.​

How to Observe World Asthma Day

Observing World Asthma Day can involve various activities aimed at increasing awareness and improving asthma care. Healthcare organizations may host educational seminars, free screening events, or workshops on asthma management. Individuals can participate by learning more about asthma, sharing information on social media, or supporting organizations dedicated to asthma research and advocacy.

For those living with asthma, it’s an opportunity to review and update their asthma action plans, consult healthcare providers about their treatment regimens, and ensure they have access to necessary medications. Engaging in open conversations about asthma can help dispel myths and reduce stigma associated with the condition.​

• Attend local or virtual events focused on asthma education.
• Share personal experiences and information about asthma on social media.
• Support organizations working towards better asthma care and research.
• Review and update personal asthma management plans.
• Advocate for policies that improve access to asthma medications and care.​

Together with partners like GARD and GINA, the WHO is working to share best practices, create impactful educational tools, and ultimately reduce the global burden of asthma through informed and empowered care.

World Asthma Day Dates Table

1. https://ginasthma.org/wad-2025/[↩]
2. https://www.who.int/news/item/07-05-2024-world-asthma-day–who-calls-for-better-education-to-empower-people-living-with-asthma[↩]