HEALTHCARE-RELATED OBSTACLES TO SUCCESSFUL ASTHMA MANAGEMENT AMONG CHILDREN IN NIGERIA

Asthma remains one of the most common chronic respiratory conditions affecting children globally, with a significant burden among Nigerian paediatric populations. Although previously considered a nervous disorder, current evidence indicates that asthma develops through complex interactions involving genetic predisposition, immune responses, psychological factors, and environmental exposures. In Nigeria, childhood asthma prevalence remains a major public health concern, with contributing risk factors including family history, allergies, tobacco smoke exposure, and environmental pollution. Despite advances in asthma management, the absence of a permanent cure makes effective control strategies essential for reducing disease-related morbidity and mortality. Poor asthma control among children has been associated with inadequate management capacity, psychological challenges such as anxiety and depression, and behavioural difficulties, particularly among those with severe disease. Addressing healthcare challenges through improved diagnosis, access to treatment, patient education, environmental control measures, and psychosocial support is crucial for enhancing asthma outcomes among Nigerian children