Unraveling the Complexity of Asthma: A Literature Review on Detection Approaches, Prevalence and Risk Factors

Muhammad Natsirian Anton Wibisono¹, Retno Asih Setyoningrum^2*, and Pudji Lestari³

Abstract

Asthma is a heterogeneous chronic respiratory condition characterized by acute and chronic symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and recurrent episodes that are often reversible. It affects a significant global population, with a prevalence of 9.1% in children and peaking at 11% in adolescents. The disease is influenced by various risk factors and imposes a substantial economic and social burden on individuals, families, and healthcare systems. Despite advances in medical knowledge, no universally accepted gold standard for diagnosing asthma in children exists, and diagnosis continues to rely on patient history, physical examination, and response to bronchodilators, with additional tests like bronchial provocation, pulmonary function tests, and standardized questionnaires aiding in confirmation. This literature review aims to explore asthma detection methods, global prevalence, and risk factors, providing a comprehensive understanding of the disease while addressing gaps in prevention and management strategies. The review also covers key topics such as the pathophysiology of asthma, triggering factors, epidemiology, and risk factors, including infections, allergen exposure, air pollution, age, gender, laughing, physical activity, smoking habits, and weather changes, along with primary and supportive examination methods to guide effective asthma management and raise public awareness.

Keywords

asthma; trigger factors; risk factors; pathophysiology; epidemiology.

Cite This Article

Wibisono, M. N. A., Setyoningrum, R. A., Lestari, P., (2025). Unraveling the Complexity of Asthma: A Literature Review on Detection Approaches, Prevalence and Risk Factors. International Journal of Scientific Advances (IJSCIA), Volume 6| Issue 1: Jan-Feb 2025, Pages 37-41, URL: https://www.ijscia.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Volume6-Issue1-Jan-Feb-No.819-37-41.pdf

Volume 6 | Issue 1: Jan – Feb 2025