The National Orientation Agency (NOA) Osun State Directorate has called for universal access to anti‑inflammatory inhalers as part of its observance of World Asthma Day 2026. The agency’s statement links the annual May 5 event to worldwide efforts to raise asthma awareness and improve the availability of essential medicines for people living with the condition.
The theme for this year’s World Asthma Day, “Access to Anti‑Inflammatory Inhalers for Everyone with Asthma – Still an Urgent Need,” underscores a persistent gap in treatment access across many regions. In a press briefing, Osun State Director of NOA Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen described asthma as a major public‑health challenge that affects millions globally. He explained that the disease causes airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness and, in severe cases, death if not properly managed.
“Most asthma‑related complications and deaths are preventable through early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and sustained public awareness,” Adefarasin said. He urged Osun residents to recognise early symptoms—such as persistent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness—and to seek medical care promptly. The director also emphasized strict adherence to prescribed therapies, including correct inhaler technique.
In addition to patient‑focused advice, the NOA director highlighted environmental triggers that exacerbate asthma. He recommended avoiding dust, smoke, air pollution and common allergens, noting that reducing exposure can significantly improve disease control.
Adefarasin called on healthcare providers, policymakers and community leaders to prioritise affordable and accessible asthma care, especially for vulnerable groups. “Every breath matters,” he said. “Through collective efforts in awareness, prevention, and access to proper treatment, we can save lives and improve quality of life.”
World Asthma Day, coordinated by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), aims to increase public understanding of asthma’s impact and to promote policies that ensure equitable treatment. In low‑ and middle‑income countries, limited access to anti‑inflammatory inhalers remains a barrier to effective disease management, contributing to higher rates of emergency visits and hospitalisations.
The NOA’s advocacy aligns with global calls for inclusion of inhaled corticosteroids in essential medicines lists, price‑regulation strategies and supply‑chain improvements. Stakeholders are expected to convene in the coming months to review national asthma programmes and to develop actionable plans that address inhaler affordability and distribution.
By foregrounding the need for universal inhaler access on World Asthma Day, the Osun State Directorate seeks to mobilise resources and reinforce commitments that could translate into measurable reductions in asthma‑related morbidity and mortality across Nigeria and the broader African region.
