Being diagnosed with asthma, but brushing off its significance, is a common narrative you hear among people with the condition. But with a prevalence of up to 15% among adults, asthma is one of the non-communicable diseases (NCDs) that presents a heavy burden to the healthcare system and to society. In this episode of NCD Chronicles, Sharizal Shaarani shares his experience of living with asthma, and how he only learned to manage it years after the initial diagnosis. We also speak to consultant respiratory physician Dr Helmy Haja Mydin to explore the gaps in patients’ perception of asthma and what should go into improving management of the disease at the primary care level. 

NCD Chronicles is a series about people living with NCDs, going beyond the diagnosis to explore their personal experiences, their challenges, as well as the impact of their health condition on their loved ones. These stories reveal the importance of understanding the unique struggles and needs of the individuals behind the disease, in our response to the NCD epidemic.

Image credit: Shutterstock

Produced by: Tee Shiao Eek

Presented by: Tee Shiao Eek

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Categories:  managing disease,  wellness,  education

Tags:  asthma,  respiratory diseases,  non communicable diseases,  smoking,  primary care,  ncdchronicles,