What health condition is primarily linked to a persistent cough?

A persistent cough is primarily linked to asthma because this respiratory condition is characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which leads to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and chronic coughing. In asthma, the cough can be triggered by factors like allergens, respiratory infections, or exercise, making it a prominent symptom that affects daily life.

In contrast, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are not directly linked to a persistent cough. Diabetes primarily affects blood sugar levels and can lead to a range of complications, hypertension deals with high blood pressure, and obesity is a condition characterized by excessive body fat. While these conditions can have respiratory implications, they do not present a persistent cough as a primary symptom like asthma does.