Dr. Juanita Mora, an allergist and immunologist, presented critical warning signs to help patients identify asthma and distinguish it from common colds.
Early detection is vital because misidentifying asthma symptoms as a cold can delay necessary treatment and lead to severe respiratory distress. This distinction is especially critical in the U.S., where asthma affects millions of people [1].
Speaking on N+ Univision, Dr. Mora said the alert signals are required for a timely diagnosis. Her presentation coincided with World Asthma Day, which was observed on May 5, 2026 [2, 3]. The global health initiative aims to raise awareness and prevent the confusion of asthma with other respiratory conditions.
While the focus of the broadcast was on the U.S. population, the global impact of the disease remains significant. For example, data indicates that one in eight people in Colombia suffers from asthma [4].
Dr. Mora said that recognizing these signals early is the primary way to ensure patients access the correct diagnostic tools and medication. By differentiating between a viral infection and an asthma flare-up, patients can avoid unnecessary complications — a goal central to the World Asthma Day mission [2].
The effort to promote early diagnosis focuses on reducing the long-term impact of the disease on quality of life. Dr. Mora said that awareness helps patients seek medical attention before symptoms escalate into a crisis.
“Asthma affects millions of people in the U.S.”
The emphasis on differentiating asthma from common colds highlights a systemic gap in patient literacy regarding respiratory health. By focusing on specific 'warning signs,' medical professionals aim to reduce emergency room visits caused by untreated asthma attacks that were mistaken for minor seasonal illnesses.
