Kericho records drop in asthma cases

Cases of asthma in Kericho County have significantly declined from 15,380 cases in 2020 to 11,119 last year.

Dr Stanley Kemboi, who is charged of non-communicable diseases in the county, said the drop translates to 27.7 per cent.

Dr Kemboi attributed the low cases to measures put in place to prevent the spread of communicable diseases, and reduced air pollution due to lockdowns and restrictions implemented to curb the spread of Covid-19 in 2020.

The medic said the Covid-19 measures reduced industrial activities, vehicular traffic and other sources of air pollution which led to cleaner air, resulting in improved respiratory health for individuals with asthma.

"These symptoms fluctuate in frequency and severity over time, often accompanied by unpredictable airflow restriction during exhalation. Sensitizing affected individuals and their loved ones is crucial for effective management and improved quality of life," added Kemboi.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects children and adults.

There are more than 250 million people living with asthma worldwide and in 2019 the respiratory disease caused an estimated 455,000 deaths according to the World Health Organisation.

Most premature asthma deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where underdiagnosis and under-treatment are common.

"It is vital that we work together to raise awareness about asthma, too many children and adults are suffering needlessly. We must ensure that people living with asthma and all those involved in their care, have the information they need to achieve the best outcomes," said Dr Bente Mikkelsen, Director of the Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, Rehabilitation and Disability at WHO.