Question : ASTHMA AND RESPIRATORY AILMENTS

(a) whether a large number of people are suffering from asthma and other respiratory ailments in the country, if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor, State/UT-wise;

(b) the number of cases of asthma and other respiratory ailments and attributable deaths reported in the country during each of the last three years, State/UT-wise;

(c) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to ensure adequate and affordable healthcare facilities for such patients and to spread awareness in this regard;

(d) the funds earmarked, allocated and utilised for the purpose during the said period, State/UT-wise; and

(e) whether consumption of junk/fast food has aggravated the aforesaid respiratory ailments, particularly among children, if so, the details thereof and the corrective measures being taken by the Government in this regard?

THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (DR. HARSH VARDHAN)

(a) & (b): State/UT-wise number of cases and deaths due to Acute Respiratory Infection reported during the years 2011, 2012 and 2013 are annexed.

(c) & (d): Health is a State subject. Therefore, it is primarily the responsibility of the State Government for providing health care for the patients suffering from asthma and other respiratory ailments. The Central Government, however, supplements the efforts of the State Governments. Provisions for health system strengthening are made under the National Health Mission (NHM). Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDSP) also strengthens the surveillance at State and District levels and builds capacity for rapid response to disease outbreaks.

There is no separate programme for Respiratory Diseases with earmarked funds. Under Pradhan Mantri Swasthay Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) six new AIIMS have been set up and upgradation of identified medical colleges has been undertaken which will also improve health care facilities for the patients.

Government has also taken measures to control environmental pollution, tightening of vehicular and industrial norms, promotion of cleaner technologies, strengthening of network of air quality monitoring stations, promotion public awareness etc.

(e): Besides a familial predisposition for asthma, other important risk factors include tobacco smoking and indoor and outdoor air pollution.