Asthma affects one in nine Australians and remains one of the nation’s most common chronic conditions. Yet, many people continue to live with symptoms they do not fully recognise or understand. This World Asthma Day, Western Australians are being encouraged to “Take a Deep Breath” — to pause, reflect, and learn more about asthma and how it can be effectively managed.
For many, asthma’s impact can be a hidden burden. With the right diagnosis, support, and treatment, people living with asthma can lead full, active lives. Western Australian resident Anthony Duffy knows this firsthand. Before his diagnosis, asthma symptoms were affecting his daily life in ways he didn’t fully understand.
After attending a community education session run by Respiratory Care WA, Anthony recognised his symptoms and sought medical advice. The diagnosis and subsequent treatment transformed his life.
In 2024–2025, around 60,300 Australians presented to emergency departments for asthma-related issues, underscoring the importance of early recognition, diagnosis, and ongoing care.
Respiratory Care WA CEO Rael Rivers said awareness is key to improving outcomes for people living with asthma.
Respiratory Care WA provides free, community-based respiratory services to improve access to care, particularly for families and individuals experiencing symptoms for the first time. Through education, outreach, and multidisciplinary care, the organisation helps more people receive support closer to home.
As part of World Asthma Day on Tuesday May 5, the Respiratory Care WA team will be out across Perth raising awareness, providing education, and offering advice to the community. The “Take a Deep Breath WA” campaign encourages everyone to pause and reflect on something many take for granted — a single breath — and to start conversations that can lead to earlier support and better health outcomes.
The Rockingham Library session will be held on May 5 from 11am to 12pm or there is free webinar from 12pm to 12.30pm register a Healthy Lung, Health Planet
For more information, visit Take a Deep Breath WA.
