Asthma is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases affecting as many as one in five children and youth in Ontario. In a group of 25 children and youth it is likely that five will have asthma.
Asthma is a leading cause of hospital admissions, emergency room visits and school absenteeism for children and youth. Asthma can cause disruption in a child’s or youth’s life. Uncontrolled asthma interrupts normal daily life, such as playing, socializing and physical activity. For instance, it can interrupt sleep, which affects their energy level and their ability to concentrate at school, or it can interrupt or stop their physical activity due to an inability to breathe. Children and youth with asthma can lead a healthy, happy, active life by maintaining control of asthma through appropriate medications and management of their triggers.