Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Post-Tuberculosis Lung Disease, Bronchiectasis and HIV Lung Disease

Asthma is one of the commonest non-communicable diseases. The cause is unknown, but genetic and environmental factors are implicated. Asthma is characterized by episodic wheezing, coughing and breathlessness, reflecting airway inflammation and intermittent reversible airflow obstruction. It is seen worldwide but at a higher prevalence in more affluent settings. Although generally treatable with regular inhaled corticosteroids and as-needed bronchodilator (reliever) inhalers, people with asthma suffer considerable morbidity and deaths continue to occur when treatment is not taken properly or is unavailable.