Chronic respiratory diseases in WHO South-East Asia: Burden, risk factors and services for prevention and management

Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs)—primarily asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—contribute significantly to the burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the WHO South-East Asia Region. CRDs impose a growing socioeconomic burden on individuals, families, and health systems, particularly in underserved and marginalized populations. These groups face widespread risk factors such as tobacco use, air pollution, and occupational exposures, and limited access to early diagnosis and essential care. This report presents a comprehensive overview of the current status of the burden of CRDs and national responses in the region. It highlights the epidemiological trends, reviews the existing national policies and health system responses, and identifies critical gaps in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care.  

This review is intended to support governments, public health experts, and partners in making informed decisions, prioritizing interventions, and advancing universal health coverage for CRDs. It is also a call to action to build resilient health systems capable of meeting the complex and growing challenge of CRDs.