Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is currently undergoing a transformation process of unprecedented magnitude due to economic development and urbanization. This is paralleled by a dramatic increase in prevalence and incidence of non-communicable disease (NCDs). In this article we analyze the current situation with regard to one group of the earliest NCDs in life time, namely allergies and asthma. This article provides an update on epidemiology, availability, and access of management strategies to patients suffering from bronchial asthma or atopic dermatitis in SSA. Despite all progress, there is still a tremendous need to support education and training, transfer of resources, cooperation with pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies to achieve adequate treatment and sustainability in SSA with regard to allergy, asthma, and eczema management.
- Skevaki, C.
- Ngocho, J. S.
- Amour, C.
- Schmid-Grendelmeier, P.
- Mmbaga, B. T.
- Renz, H.
Keywords
- Bronchial asthma
- Sub-Saharan Africa
- atopic dermatitis
- epidemiology
- treatment
