Over 1 million Romanians live with asthma, but many do not follow proper treatment, warns the Romanian Society of Pneumology

Asthma affects more than 1 million people in Romania, yet the condition remains frequently underdiagnosed and insufficiently controlled, according to the Romanian Society of Pneumology. On the occasion of World Asthma Day 2026, specialists emphasize that effective therapies exist, but proper and consistent use remains a major challenge.

Rising prevalence and significant impact on children

Data presented by specialists indicate a prevalence estimated between 4% and 9% of the population, with a steadily increasing incidence. Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children, with a prevalence exceeding 10%, and allergic asthma affects up to 1 in 5 children.

Treatment exists, but is not used correctly

According to Prof. Dr. Florin Mihălțan, one of the main issues is the overreliance on rescue medication instead of maintenance therapy.

“In clinical practice, we frequently see patients who rely only on rescue medication and ignore maintenance treatment. This approach significantly increases the risk of severe exacerbations and hospitalizations.”

Disease control depends on the regular use of inhaled anti-inflammatory therapies (particularly corticosteroids), which address the underlying inflammation and prevent exacerbations. Without them, short-acting bronchodilators provide only temporary relief and do not modify disease progression.

Access to therapy – a public health priority

The theme of World Asthma Day 2026 highlights the need for universal access to inhaled therapies. Prof. Dr. Ruxandra Ulmeanu stresses that the issue is not only the availability of treatment, but real and consistent access.

“Inhaled anti-inflammatory therapies are the cornerstone of modern asthma management and essential for preventing exacerbations.”

Significant clinical and socio-economic burden

Asthma affects patients’ quality of life by limiting daily activities, reducing exercise capacity, and increasing school and work absenteeism. In severe cases, it may lead to repeated hospitalizations and can become life-threatening.

Key risk factors include allergies, air pollution, respiratory infections, and smoking, with higher incidence observed in urban areas. Experts warn that asthma prevalence is increasing by approximately 50% every decade.

Recommendations for patients

The Romanian Society of Pneumology highlights several key principles for disease control: adherence to prescribed treatment, correct inhaler technique, regular monitoring, and avoiding discontinuation of therapy without medical advice.

The role of education and early diagnosis

Specialists emphasize that reducing the burden of asthma depends on patient education, access to modern therapies, and continuous collaboration between patient and physician. Awareness campaigns and early diagnosis programs are essential for timely case identification and prevention of complications.