Understanding asthma in Australia

12 April 2021

What is asthma?

A person with asthma has sensitive airways. When they become irritated, the airways tighten and narrow, which is what causes the long-term lung condition. It then becomes harder to breathe and you may start coughing or wheezing.

One in nine (or 2.7 million) people are affected by asthma in Australia. And in 2017-18, almost 39,000 Australians were hospitalised for an anxiety attack or flare-up. Incredibly, around 80% of hospital visits are preventable.

And even though there’s no cure, it’s usually possible to manage the symptoms and live a full life.

Why is asthma so high in Australia?

Did you know rates of asthma in Australia are some of the highest in the world – and it’s on the rise? There may be many reasons for this:

• Australia has a lot of asthma triggers like pollen, pollution, mould and dust.
• Some people may not be able to afford treatments – especially if several family members have asthma.
• Weather events and natural disasters like thunderstorms, wild winds and bushfires can also trigger asthma flare-ups.
• More children are being raised in sanitary environments, so aren’t as exposed to germs or have as robust an immune system as previous generations.

Who is more likely to get asthma?

It’s a little hard to say who will get asthma and why, and people with asthma experience the condition differently. But it may happen if you have a family history of asthma, eczema or hay fever. Things like exposure to smoke, workplace chemicals, and being born prematurely could also increase your risk.

Whatever your risk factors, if you have asthma or would like to establish a more lung-friendly environment at home, here are some things you can do:

• Keep your home as clean and dust-free as possible.
• Keep windows closed and use air conditioning during pollen season.
• Take your preventer medicine as prescribed – especially during triggering events like thunderstorms.
• Understand the links and differences between asthma, flu and COVID-19.
• Speak with your doctor and other health professionals about having an asthma action plan in place.

How much does asthma cost Australia?

In Australia, asthma costs over $28 billion a year. That’s $11,740 per person and includes disability and death, healthcare costs, lost productivity, and income for carers. So as you can see, asthma in Australia can have a significant, long-term impact on people’s lives and livelihood.

How can you manage asthma?

If you or a loved one are living with asthma, there are some things you can do to manage it well. On top of the tips we mentioned above, a MedicAlert membership and ID provides peace of mind that you’re always in the safest possible hands.

If you can’t communicate with others (which can happen during a severe asthma attack) first responders and healthcare professionals can check your medical alert bracelet or necklace and access your clinically validated online health record – to provide fast, accurate assistance 24/7. Shop our collection of medical alert bracelets in Australia.

Disclaimer

Please note the information above is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Any questions regarding a medical diagnosis or treatment should be directed to a healthcare professional.