The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA): A Coordinated Worldwide Effort to Improve Asthma Prevention and Management
The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) was established in 1993 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) with the aim of increasing awareness about asthma and improving its prevention and management on a global scale. One of the key features of GINA is its independence, as it is funded solely through the sale and licensing of its reports and figures. This ensures that GINA can maintain its objectivity and focus on providing evidence-based strategies that can be adapted for local health systems and medicine availability. The GINA report, which is updated annually, serves as a comprehensive global strategy for asthma management. It includes practical flow-charts and tables that healthcare professionals can use to guide their decision-making process. The report is designed to be accessible and user-friendly, with a practical focus on improving patient outcomes. To ensure the accuracy and relevance of the GINA report, a Science Committee reviews published GRADE reviews, when available. This committee also conducts a twice-yearly cumulative review of new evidence across the entire asthma strategy. Careful attention is paid to the clinical relevance of study designs and the generalizability of populations. Before publication, the GINA report undergoes extensive external review to ensure its quality and reliability. This review process involves experts from various fields, including healthcare professionals, researchers, and patient advocates. This collaborative approach helps to ensure that the report reflects the latest advancements in asthma management and is applicable to diverse healthcare settings. In conclusion, the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) is a coordinated worldwide effort to improve asthma prevention and management. Through its evidence-based strategies and practical focus, GINA aims to empower healthcare professionals and improve patient outcomes. By providing a comprehensive global strategy that can be adapted for local contexts, GINA plays a crucial role in addressing the global burden of asthma.