As part of the celebration of National Lung Month in August, specialists in pulmonary medicine highlighted the increasing prevalence of asthma in the Philippines.
Studies from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveal that asthma is often underdiagnosed and undertreated in the Philippines, with a staggering 98 percent of patients lacking access to proper outpatient care. This results in poorly controlled asthma, increasing the risk of severe attacks and hospitalizations.
To address this issue, pulmonary specialists discussed the challenges of managing this chronic respiratory condition during the Agham Kapihan roundtable called “Every Breath Matters” last Aug. 15.
Dr. Maria Janeth Samson, president of the Philippine College of Chest Physicians, revealed that the overuse of short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) like salbutamol is a common problem, indicating poor asthma control. Research shows a strong link between SABA overuse and an increased risk of severe attacks. Experts recommend a balanced approach using inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) as a cornerstone of treatment.
On the other hand, Dr. Guia Limpoco, trustee of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians, and Dr. Anna Marie Putulin, president of the Philippine Academy of Pediatric Pulmonologists, emphasized the importance of family involvement and patient education. Early intervention and lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, are crucial for managing asthma in children.
“Asthma treatment is also a family affair. We need to check the techniques because sometimes they are done incorrectly, which is why their symptoms are not being controlled,” Limpoco said.
“We want them to be trained from a young age so that the issue is addressed early on. We encourage them to live a normal lifestyle, involve your children in sports,” added Putulin.
Meanwhile, pharmaceutical companies like AstraZeneca are collaborating with healthcare providers and patient groups to improve asthma care. Initiatives such as the Asthma Action Plan and Asthma Care Hubs aim to empower patients and provide accessible resources.
“It will take the entire ecosystem of stakeholders in health to change the landscape of asthma care in the country—the government, the private sector, patient groups, and of course healthcare experts,” said Dr. Cyril Tolosa, medical affairs director of AstraZeneca Philippines.
In 2023, AstraZeneca also worked with PAFP, PCCP, and Mercury Drug to launch Asthma Care Hub, the first in-store end-to-end healthcare solution for patients with asthma. To date, there are now 14 hubs in Mega Manila.
