Western Australians are being encouraged to “Do Blue” this September to raise awareness of asthma, a condition affecting more than 230,000 people across the state.
From blue-themed fundraisers to iconic landmarks glowing blue at night, the initiative is part of Respiratory Care WA’s (RCWA) annual Do Blue. Do You. campaign for National Asthma Week which runs from September 1-7.
Acting CEO Rael Rivers said the campaign aims to start conversations about asthma, its impact, and the importance of correct diagnosis—steps that can prevent hospital visits and save lives.
“Asthma is one of the leading causes of disease burden in children aged 5–14, yet many families still miss the early signs or don’t have the right treatment plan. In 2022–23, about 97,000 Australians presented to the Emergency Department with asthma, and children made up nearly half of all hospitalisations,” said Ms Rivers.
“By turning WA blue, we’re opening up important conversations about early diagnosis, prevention, and effective care. Our goal is to reduce these numbers while helping the community understand just how serious asthma can be.”
“Asthma can be easy to overlook because it affects everyone differently and doesn’t always seem life- threatening. Yet for thousands of Western Australians, severe flare-ups are serious and debilitating.
With the right awareness, treatment, and support, however, people can manage their asthma, reduce risks, and live active, healthy lives.”
Communities across Western Australia are encouraged to get involved in a variety of ways — whether by hosting a blue-themed morning tea, wearing blue to school or work, decorating shopfronts, or participating in the blue light trail that will illuminate Perth and Bunbury landmarks in the lead-up to and during National Asthma Week.
Every activity helps raise funds for RCWA’s free services, such as lung function testing, education, and ongoing support for Western Australians living with respiratory conditions.
For more information, visit respiratorycarewa.org.au.
