FEATURE: Hidden struggles of asthmatic students on campus

Asthma is a condition that extends beyond occasional breathing difficulties, affecting millions worldwide and causing thousands of deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite challenges in diagnosis and treatment, especially in low-income countries, asthma can be managed with proper medication, allowing individuals to lead normal lives.

In Nigeria, the burden is significant. In 2020, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare reported 8,192 asthma-related deaths, urging improvements in access to life-saving treatments, including reducing import tariffs on essential pharmaceutical products. However, this statistic represents more than just numbers. Many students at universities like Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA) face daily struggles to manage their asthma while pursuing academic goals.

Dusty classrooms, changing weather, academic stress, smoke, and poor ventilation in AAUA can exacerbate symptoms, making ordinary routines challenging. Some students carry their inhalers wherever they go, while others are constantly vigilant for potential triggers. The emotional toll can be immense, with some students fearing mockery and being treated differently by peers.

Abigail Ayegbusi, a Mass Communication student, has lived with asthma for five years and highlights the stress of managing the condition alongside university demands. "Stress is one of the major things that can trigger an asthma attack, yet as a student, I have to attend lectures, meet deadlines, and move around campus every day," she says. One incident where she ignored warning signs for a week led to a severe attack, missing an examination and facing life-threatening symptoms.

Despite the challenges, Abigail has found support from her classmates, who have helped her access medication during crises. However, not all students are so fortunate. Some, like Gemma, who studies away from her family, face additional emotional and practical difficulties. The lack of immediate access to medication and understanding from those around her adds to the complexity of their situation.

The experience of missing examinations due to asthma attacks underscores the impact on academic life. A 2018 study of university students in Ilorin, Nigeria, found asthma prevalence ranging from 10.4% to 24.1%, depending on the diagnostic criteria used. While this study does not directly relate to AAUA, it provides insight into the prevalence of asthma among Nigerian university students.