Childhood asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lung airways characterized by symptoms like coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. It affects approximately 14% of children and onset is usually before age 6. Risk factors include family history, allergy, low socioeconomic status, male gender and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. Diagnosis involves assessing symptoms, lung function testing and allergy testing. Treatment involves controlling triggers, pharmacotherapy including long-term controllers and quick-relief medications, and managing exacerbations.