COPD is under-diagnosed in India with high prevalence
Source: IT News / Sakshi Jaiswal
Ghaziabad, November 20 2019:
Besides the fact that COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is under-diagnosed and underrated disease burden in our country, it is the second highest cause of mortality after heart diseases in India last year.
COPD being one of the most neglected, progressive and a crippling disease can be easily prevented and treated if detected in its early stages.
Therefore it is of utmost importance to create awareness about the disease among the masses for early recognition and better management.
According to the recent factsheet released by WHO, over 9.5 Lakh Indians lost their lives suffering from COPD last year.
Given the afflicting Air quality in Delhi NCR, rising outdoor pollution is one of the major threats affecting quality of life of every individual without age barrier, making COPD the second most common killer disease.
"While effects of COPD reflect not only upon our lungs but also adversely affects heart functions, muscle strength, mental well-being, bone strength and various other organs, it is no more considered as a single disease and rather a syndrome.
The most common symptoms of COPD are breathlessness, or a 'need for air', excessive sputum production, and a chronic cough.
On this occasion of World COPD day, we all must pledge to do our own bit to improve the environment, the air we breathe and start a crusade for healthy lungs" .
Said Dr Sharad Joshi, Principal Consultant, Department of Pulmonology, Max Superspeciality Hospital, Vaishali .
Also termed as Chronic Bronchitis and emphysema, COPD is not only restricted to smokers, making it a major reason for being under-diagnosed life threatening lung disease that progressively lead to death.
Pertaining to the poor indoor air quality due to use of biomass fuels for cooking, India has a significantly high prevalence of COPD among non-smokers as well and is estimated to be among atleast 5% of Indian population.
"The major risk factors for onset of COPD include tobacco smoking, indoor and outdoor air pollution, industrial chemicals and dusts, genetic predisposition and repeated chest infections.
Early clinical suspicion and monitoring through lung function test (spirometry) not only helps in early diagnosis but also optimizes the treatment thereby preventing rapid deterioration through inhaled medications.
Regular breathing exercises and pulmonary-rehabilitation have proved beneficial in preserving lung functions and symptomatic relief." Added Dr Joshi.