Asthma or Just a Cold? Understanding the Silent Chronic Respiratory Disease Rising in Korea

Asthma: The Hidden Chronic Respiratory Challenge in Korea

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness and reversible airflow obstruction, causing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. In Korea, about 2.4% of the population suffers from asthma, with higher prevalence among the elderly (3.5% in those over 60). Recent data show about 1.75 million patients visited hospitals for asthma in 2022, with numbers steadily increasing due to aging, air pollution, and fine dust exposure. Despite its prevalence, asthma is often confused with common colds or bronchitis, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial as asthma is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management rather than a one-time cure.

Asthma Symptoms Often Mistaken for a Cold

Many Koreans mistake persistent cough and breathlessness following a cold for lingering viral infection symptoms. However, when cough lasts over four weeks or breathing difficulties persist, asthma should be suspected. Unlike colds, asthma involves chronic airway inflammation leading to recurrent symptoms and exacerbations triggered by allergens, infections, cold air, or stress. Misdiagnosis can lead to worsening symptoms and increased risk of severe attacks. Medical experts emphasize the importance of pulmonary function tests to confirm asthma diagnosis and to differentiate it from other respiratory conditions.

Current Asthma Treatment Landscape in Korea

The cornerstone of asthma treatment is the regular use of inhaled corticosteroids, which directly reduce airway inflammation and prevent exacerbations. Despite this, inhaler use remains suboptimal in Korea, with many patients relying on oral medications or steroids, which can cause serious side effects if used long-term. Severe asthma, affecting about 5-10% of asthma patients, poses a significant health burden, accounting for high medical costs and frequent hospitalizations. Biological treatments, which target specific immune pathways, have shown remarkable effectiveness for severe asthma but face limited insurance coverage and high costs in Korea, restricting patient access.

Challenges in Severe Asthma Management and Healthcare System

Experts highlight that severe asthma patients often remain underdiagnosed or inadequately treated due to low awareness among primary care providers and patients. Referral systems to specialized asthma centers are insufficient, leaving many patients in a treatment blind spot. Overuse of oral steroids is prevalent, increasing risks of osteoporosis, hypertension, and diabetes. Korean asthma hospitalization and mortality rates are higher than OECD averages, underscoring the need for improved management strategies and expanded access to advanced therapies like biologics.

Cultural and Environmental Factors Influencing Asthma in Korea

Urbanization, increasing air pollution, and fine dust exposure contribute significantly to the rising asthma prevalence. Additionally, psychological stress and lifestyle factors such as problematic internet use have been linked to asthma exacerbations in Korean adolescents. Public health programs, including asthma education centers and school nurse training, have been established to raise awareness and improve asthma management. These efforts are crucial for addressing cultural perceptions and improving patient compliance with treatment.

Living Well with Asthma: Importance of Awareness and Consistent Care

Although asthma cannot be cured, it is a controllable disease with proper diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle adjustments. Patients are encouraged to understand their condition, adhere strictly to inhaler use, and avoid known triggers. Regular follow-ups and pulmonary function tests help monitor disease control. National programs supporting asthma education and specialized clinics aim to enhance patient quality of life. Ultimately, consistent management leads to healthier breathing and reduces the risk of severe attacks, enabling patients to lead active, fulfilling lives.