Message from the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

World Asthma Day

May 1, 2012

The Global Initiative for Asthma, in partnership with health care groups and asthma educators, mark today as World Asthma Day. It's an opportunity to raise awareness of asthma and to inspire action to improve asthma care throughout the world.

Asthma is a chronic health disorder affecting an estimated 3 million Canadians. It is a condition characterized by chronic cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing. Symptoms and attacks usually occur after exercise or exposure to allergens, viral respiratory infections, irritant fumes or gases. More frequent and more severe asthma attacks may occur among children with asthma, who are exposed to second-hand smoke.

Effective treatment can prevent the onset of symptoms in response to these triggers, and can control symptoms once they occur. The Canadian Institutes for Health Research currently supports many research studies that focus on identifying the causes of this illness and finding better treatments.

The Public Health Agency of Canada conducts surveillance of chronic respiratory diseases. The Agency's report on lung disease -- Life and Breath: Respiratory Diseases in Canada -- aims to raise awareness of the impact of respiratory disease.

The Government of Canada's support of the National Lung Health Framework is helping to improve the respiratory health of all people living in Canada. Community-based projects, funded under the Framework, have produced tangible results for Canadians, increasing awareness, and improving prevention, early detection, and management of lung disease in Canada.

The theme of World Asthma Day 2012 is "You Can Control Your Asthma." The following tips can help those with the condition manage their symptoms and lead active lives:

• Know and avoid asthma triggers
• Learn how to use medications properly
• Work with health professionals to learn about asthma control
• Have a written asthma action plan

As Minister of Health, I am pleased to recognise World Asthma Day, and I encourage all Canadians to learn more about this respiratory illness.

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada