Asthma is:
- a chronic inflammatory disease in the airways (breathing tubes) of the lungs
- one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in Canada affecting more than 850,000 children under the age of 141
- a leading cause for both school absenteeism and hospitalization in Canada
When asthma is controlled, children and youth can lead a healthy, active life.
When asthma is uncontrolled, it interrupts daily life, such as playing, socializing, sleeping, and physical activity. Uncontrolled asthma can:
- interrupt sleep, which affects energy levels and ability to concentrate at school2
- interrupt or stop physical activity due to an inability to breathe
For more information about asthma, refer to the Understanding Asthma video.
Note: The content on this website is not intended to take the place of directions from a child’s/youth’s health care provider.
References
1Asthma Canada. (2021). Annual Report 2021.
2Basch, C. E. (2011). Healthier students are better learners: A missing link in school reforms to close the achievement gap. Journal of School Health, 81(10), 593–598