World Asthma Day 2025, observed on May 6, highlights a growing health concern the increasing prevalence of asthma, especially in urban regions grappling with climate change and pollution. Doctors and pulmonologists are raising alarms about how worsening environmental conditions are directly contributing to this chronic respiratory illness.
Urban Heat Islands and Respiratory Strain
In cities, daily temperature fluctuations are becoming more extreme a phenomenon known as the urban heat island effect. During the day, concrete structures and lack of greenery trap heat, pushing temperatures above 30°C, only for the nights to cool down quickly. This irregular temperature swing severely affects human respiratory systems, particularly in densely populated zones where air circulation is poor and green cover has diminished by 45–60% over two decades.
These rapid changes disrupt the body’s natural ability to regulate itself and increase vulnerability to respiratory illnesses. In such conditions, viruses and allergens thrive, further aggravating asthma symptoms. Experts point out that respiratory illnesses rise by 20% during extreme weather variability, making asthma not just a chronic condition but also an environmentally triggered one.
Pollution, Pollen, and Urban Lifestyle: A Dangerous Mix
Urban air is saturated with dust, smog, pollen, and industrial pollutants, all of which act as irritants for the lungs. With reduced tree cover and overuse of air conditioners, natural cooling and air filtration processes are disrupted. Pollutants stay trapped longer, increasing the risk of both upper and lower respiratory tract infections, which are common asthma triggers.
Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immunity are at highest risk. For those already living with asthma, the combination of pollution, heat, and viral infections forms a vicious cycle that often leads to frequent hospital visits. India already has an estimated 15–20 million people living with asthma, and this number is expected to climb as urbanization expands.
Breaking the Cycle: Public Health and Urban Planning Solutions
Doctors emphasize that prevention starts with awareness and action. A multi-layered approach involving urban planning, policy change, and individual action can mitigate the health effects of climate-related asthma. Some key steps include:
- Expanding green spaces, rooftop gardens, and tree-lined streets
- Encouraging public and electric transport to reduce vehicular emissions
- Avoiding single-use plastics and reducing industrial waste
- Ensuring urban airflow is not blocked by congested construction
- Promoting climate-resilient building designs and green infrastructure
On World Asthma Day, experts call for urgent attention to climate-smart urban planning and community-level action to prevent asthma from becoming an even larger health crisis in the years to come.