Breathe In, Breathe Out: Asthmatics and Environmental Challenges in Grand-Lome, Togo

Abstract

Over recent decades, interest in the impact of climate change and air pollution on respiratory conditions has significantly increased. Despite this attention, patients, as a vulnerable group, remain relatively uninformed about the potential links between climate, pollution, and their health. This study aimed to assess the perception of asthmatics in Togo regarding the relationship between climatic variables, air pollution, and the severity of their asthma attacks. Conducted in healthcare centers in the Grand-Lome regions, the survey revealed a predominance of young adults, mainly males aged 18 to 30 years. Most participants have attained an education level ranging from high school diploma to bachelor's degree, but a significant portion has an education level below high school diploma. Regarding knowledge about climate change and air pollution, a quarter of participants have no knowledge on the subject, while a minority possess an advanced level of knowledge. Nearly half of the participants attribute their asthma attacks to climate and pollution, with critical periods being the dry season, rainy season, and harmattan, with major triggers including heat, exhaust fumes, and dust. The majority of participants use charcoal and firewood as cooking energy sources, exacerbating asthma symptoms. Although 60% of participants regularly visit healthcare centers for asthma control, nearly 40% do not, citing social beliefs that asthma is a spiritual disease and should be treated in convents or prayer places. Financial constraints also contribute to non-attendance. Among those who experienced at least 10 attacks in the last 12 months, over half have no knowledge of climate change and air pollution, mainly within the under 30 age group, highlighting the need for targeted awareness and intervention programs for this demographic.