Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, is silently suffocating millions of Kenyans, particularly children and families living in low-income settings. The disease inflames and narrows the airways, causing wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and shortness of breath. For some, the attacks are life-threatening when treatment is unavailable or unaffordable.
Asthma does not discriminate, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. However, women and children bear the greatest burden. Young children, especially those between six months and five years, are particularly vulnerable, making asthma one of the most common chronic illnesses of childhood. National estimates suggest that about 10 percent of the population nearly four million people live with the disease, with prevalence higher among women than men.
The Hidden Triggers
Asthma triggers vary widely and include pollen, cold weather, smoke, strong scents, exercise, and stress. In poorly ventilated homes where charcoal and firewood are used for cooking and heating, children are at even greater risk. Cold seasons worsen attacks, while exposure to chemicals, dust, and tobacco further inflame symptoms.
Barriers to Treatment
Although effective treatment exists, access remains a major challenge. Inhaled corticosteroids are the most reliable long-term therapy, while fast-acting bronchodilators are vital during acute attacks. Yet, many patients in Kenya cannot access these medicines consistently. In public hospitals, annual treatment costs can range between USD 30 and 250, but in private facilities, the cost may rise to USD 1,000 an impossible figure for many households. The lack of affordable medication leads to preventable hospitalisations, lost school days for children, and reduced productivity for adults.
A Growing Health Burden
Uncontrolled asthma places a heavy economic and social burden on families and the healthcare system. It disrupts education, limits physical activity, and contributes to absenteeism at workplaces. With urbanisation and environmental pollution on the rise, cases are expected to increase unless urgent action is taken.
The Way Forward
To reduce asthma’s toll, Kenya must prioritise respiratory health within its broader non-communicable disease strategy. This requires consistent public health education, affordable access to essential medicines, and improved living conditions, particularly in urban slums. Better ventilation in homes, reduction of indoor smoke exposure, and enforcement of asthma care guidelines are critical.
Asthma may be incurable, but it is highly manageable with the right interventions. Stronger investment, both at community and national level, could save lives and allow millions of Kenyans especially children to breathe easier.
