Mumbai: As World Asthma Day is observed globally on the first Tuesday of May, healthcare experts in Mumbai are raising alarms over a sharp increase in childhood asthma cases, particularly among children aged 6 to 10.
Air pollution and shifting climate conditions have been identified as leading contributors to this rise. At JJ Hospital, doctors have recorded a 25 to 30 percent increase in the number of children being treated for asthma.
On occasion of World Asthma Day, medical professionals note that symptoms such as persistent coughing, wheezing, and breathlessness – especially during nighttime or after physical exertion – are increasingly prevalent in younger patients. These symptoms stem from inflammation in the lungs caused by prolonged exposure to polluted air.
Dr Abha Mahashur, a pulmonary specialist at Lilavati Hospital, underlined the seriousness of childhood asthma. She urged parents not to ignore persistent cough, allergic reactions, or skin problems – especially in children with a family history of respiratory illnesses – and to consult medical professionals without delay.
Supporting this, Dr Tanvi Bhatt from Zynova Shalby Hospital stated that asthma is now being diagnosed even in children without a genetic predisposition, pointing to environmental factors like air pollution as major culprits.
Dr Sushant Mane, Associate Professor at JJ Hospital, warned against disregarding chronic coughs and colds in children. “Steam therapy and over-the-counter cold remedies often provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying asthma,” he said. Currently, 15 to 20 children visit the hospital’s OPD every Wednesday for asthma-related issues, with a recent spike of 25 to 30 percent in such cases.
World Asthma Day: Multiple Environmental Triggers Identified
According to Dr Preeti Meshram, a respiratory expert at JJ Hospital, triggers such as dust, pet dander (especially cat fur), strong odours, incense smoke, camphor, mosquito-repellent coils, and pigeon droppings are contributing to asthma flare-ups. “Despite symptoms, many children avoid or discontinue medications,” she noted, urging strict adherence to medical treatment and proper use of inhalers.
Dr Meshram also highlighted the deteriorating air quality in Mumbai, cautioning that worsening pollution is intensifying asthma severity. She advised the public to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and use protective masks in highly polluted zones.
Call for Parental Vigilance
On World Asthma Day, doctors recommend that parents consult specialists promptly if their children experience recurrent cold or cough symptoms. Home remedies should be avoided, and any prescribed medication should be taken regularly without interruption.
