Photo: BSS

DHAKA, May 3, 2026 (BSS) - The increase in harmful particulate matter, dust, smoke and chemical in the air is leading to a rise in respiratory problems among children and the elderly, experts told a seminar today.

They said asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. The prevalence of this disease is increasing day by day. People of any age, including children, as well as both men and women, can be affected by it. However, although asthma is a lifelong disease, it can be kept under control with proper and regular treatment. The primary treatment for it is the use of inhalers.

The speakers made the remarks at a seminar organized by the Department of Respiratory Medicine at the Evercare Hospital auditorium in the capital marking the World Asthma Day.

The event was chaired by Dr. Ziaul Haque, Senior Consultant of the Department of Respiratory Medicine. Speakers included Dr. Kazi Saifuddin Bennoor, Director of the Bangladesh Medical Research Council (BMRC) and Dr. Arif Mahmud, Group Medical Director of Evercare Hospital.

Dr. S. M. Abdullah Al Mamun, Senior Consultant and Coordinator of the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Evercare Hospital, Dhaka and Dr. Zafar Iqbal, Senior Consultant of the AICU and HDU departments presented the keynote papers.

Dr. Mamun said climate change and air pollution have become major causes of the increase in the number and severity of asthma patients worldwide. The rise in harmful particulate matter, dust, smoke and chemical pollution in the air is causing increased respiratory problems among children and the elderly.

He added that to address this situation, controlling air pollution, raising awareness and ensuring accessible and effective advanced treatment for all are extremely important.

Dr. Saifuddin Bennoor said, every three seconds, we easily inhale and exhale. But an asthma patient can't do this easily. For them, it is a terribly difficult situation.

Dr. Arif Mahmud said, although asthma is a manageable chronic disease, many patients remain at risk. Therefore, it is essential to ensure inhalers for all asthma patients.