RIYADH: There are an estimated two million asthma sufferers in the Kingdom, according to a consultant on chest diseases. Prof. Muhammad Bin Saleh Al-Hajjaj, Chairman of the Saudi Thoracic Society, disclosed that studies are taking place on asthma among school children. The incidence of the ailment is between four and 23 percent in various regions of the country. Al-Hajjaj's comments are part of an awareness campaign “Improve your chest health” launched recently by the Saudi Thoracic Society. He said asthma cases are on the rise for unknown reasons, but some believe that various factors play a role including rapid urbanization, environmental pollution, eating certain types of food and keeping away from a natural way of life. Prof. Al-Hajjaj said no methods or treatments are available at present to prevent the occurrence of the disease because people often have a genetic disposition to it. “In view of environmental, physical and psychological factors affecting the occurrence of the disease and its severity, people should avoid environmental allergens like dust, smoke and mixing with animals.” Al-Hajjaj said antibiotics are not beneficial in the treatment of asthma unless there is bacterial inflammation. He said it was important to have awareness programs for doctors and patients. “The ‘Improve your chest health' campaign is being launched by the society in cooperation with Astra Zeneca, to improve the level of awareness among patients and doctors.” He said the awareness programs for the public and individuals include educational bulletins, leaflets, health exhibitions and lectures.