#WorldAsthmaDay2025 #BreatheFreely #InnovationForHealth #EntrepreneursAgainstAsthma
Observed on the first Tuesday in May, this year World Asthma Day 2025 falls on May 6. It carries the urgent theme: “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL”. With over 260 million people affected globally and more than 450,000 deaths each year, asthma is not just a medical issue – it is a call to action for all sectors, including entrepreneurs, to contribute to a healthier world.
In low- and middle-income countries, where 96% of asthma deaths occur, access to lifesaving inhalers remains dangerously limited. Inhaled corticosteroids – essential to asthma control – are often unaffordable or unavailable, thus placing millions at risk of severe attacks and death. On this World Asthma Day, the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) calls for a systemic change – not just from governments and health agencies, but also from innovators and entrepreneurs.
How can entrepreneurs help breathe life into Asthma Care?
In India, entrepreneurial ventures are already stepping in. For instance, the JAI digital asthma educator platform has educated thousands on correct inhaler use. Pharma giant Cipla’s #BerokZindagi campaign is busting myths around asthma and inhaler stigma. But the challenge remains vast – and so does the opportunity!
Air pollution, a key trigger of asthma, opens a powerful area of innovation. Entrepreneurs can invest in air-purifying technologies, clean energy solutions, and smart city infrastructure. Others can develop asthma management apps, telehealth platforms, or localized treatment delivery services that bridge the rural-urban gap in healthcare.
Moreover, workplace health is economic health. Poorly-managed asthma can lead to absenteeism & lower productivity. Entrepreneurs can champion workplace policies that reduce triggers, offer flexible health benefits & support affected employees.
Entrepreneurs also have a unique platform to reshape public perceptions. By launching educational campaigns, sponsoring research & creating inclusive environments, they can reduce stigma, boost early diagnosis, and save lives too.
This World Asthma Day, let’s recognize that entrepreneurship isn’t just about profit – it’s about ‘purpose’. Asthma can be controlled. Deaths can be prevented. Lives can be transformed. All it takes is vision, innovation, and a willingness to act!
Avtar Madan
Himanshu
Shree Lahiri
