‘Right to Breathe Equal’ must become reality: Asthma specialist

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

On the occasion of World Asthma Day 2026, Dr. Vishnun Rao Veerapaneni, Chairman and Managing Director of SWASA Hospital, has called for urgent global and national action to ensure equitable access to life-saving asthma treatments, emphasizing that “breathing is not a privilege, but a fundamental human right.”

Having been associated with World Asthma Day since its inception in 1998, Dr. Veerapaneni reflected on the first global slogan, “Right to Breathe Equal,” noting that the message remains just as relevant today as it was nearly three decades ago.

This year’s theme, announced by the Global Initiative for Asthma, is: “Access to anti-inflammatory inhalers for everyone with asthma – still an urgent need.” According to Dr. Veerapaneni, this gap in care leads to preventable suffering, repeated hospitalizations, and even avoidable deaths.“Despite remarkable medical advancements, the tragedy is not lack of treatment—but lack of access,” he said. “We have the knowledge and tools, but not everyone can reach them.”

The 2026 campaign highlights the urgent need to make these medications affordable and available to all, regardless of geography or socioeconomic status. Dr. Veerapaneni stressed that access to proper asthma care should be seen as a basic healthcare right.