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In 2021, lung diseases were among the 3 leading causes of mortality causing over 18 million deaths globally and having devastating consequences for patients and families. But the situation in Africa seems especially alarming; 1 in 10 children in Africa have asthma symptoms, making it the most common non-communicable disease (NCD) in children and adolescents in Africa. In Cameroon, pollution and disease stigma are still significant barriers to achieving asthma control. In Nigeria, where the prevalence is high, the cost of asthma medicines not being subsidized is still a barrier to therapy. On the contrary, in South Africa, despite the availability of asthma medications lack of efficient diagnosis is a barrier to care, leading this country to have the highest prevalence of childhood asthma in the African continent. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide, and an important cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Smoking is an important risk factor for COPD in SSA, and this exposure needs to be reduced.
GAAPP - Global Allergy & Airways Patient Platform - is an umbrella organisation linking member organisations with a common interest. This is of supporting and improving the quality of life for people around the globe who suffer from allergies, airways and atopic diseases. A coalition of 22 local member organizations from 10 African countries, including Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Gambia, South Africa, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, Togo, Burundi and Zambia have united to create a regional alliance dedicated to addressing lung health challenges across Africa and West Asia. Together, they represent a broad spectrum of patient communities, spanning respiratory, allergic, skin and non-communicable disease advocacy.
"Allergy and respiratory diseases remain under-recognised across Africa and West Asia; and through this Nairobi meeting, we call on regional leaders to strengthen awareness, diagnosis, and patient care." said Perpetual Obiageri Nwangoro, African & West Asian Regional Alliance Administrator at GAAPP.
