Over the years, knowledge about asthma and its effective treatment has grown. It is estimated that over 300 million people are victims of this disease and an additional 100 million are estimated to be affected by 2025 globally (Currie and Baker, 2012). In the UK, asthma is increasingly becoming a major disease affecting individuals of different ages, ethnicities, races and genders. The British Lung Foundation (2011) stated that it is more common in the childhood stage and can also occur in later life. According to Asthma UK (2014), asthma is less prevalent in men than women and children suffer more from asthma than adults. Recent data in the UK shows that in children and adults, occupational asthma is on the rise, with an estimated 1 in 11 children and 1 in 12 adults being treated for asthma (Asthma, 2014). Asthma has been a major focus of clinical and public health interventions and has been dominant in many homes over the years. According to Crockett (2003) asthma is a disease that affects the respiratory system causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways. The respiratory system works to keep everyone alive, any interference with its functioning could cause complications and death. For this reason, this is the topic chosen for this assignment. The purpose of this article is to identify the definition of asthma, the pathophysiology, causes and triggers researched in the literature. Secondly, the impact on individuals, family and society will be discussed. Third, the role of the professional nurse will be discussed in this article. The general healthcare management of the disease will also be discussed; with greater emphasis on the management of school-age children. In asthmatic patients their airways become swollen… half the paper… water (crockett,2003). This could limit frequent attacks or any embarrassing situations that the individual might face. Most people like to exercise, especially children who like to run and jump with friends. For some asthmatics it can sometimes prevent them from taking part in physical activities. Crockett (2003) suggest that both young and old people should be encouraged to participate in some form of physical activity because exercise plays a vital part of their well-being. Physical therapy and pharmacotherapy could help the individual develop exercise tolerance, especially those who hyperventilate. Furthermore, the nurse should counsel patients/clients on environmental changes such as no smoking indoors, and allergen triggers should be identified so as to prevent the risk of asthma attacks and the additional costs of frequent emergency visits for the health service.