WORLD COPD DAY 2023: EMPOWERING EARLY ACTION, THROUGH BETTER DISEASE AWARENESS
India, 2023:
India's most recent National Health Policy aims to reduce early deaths from
noncommunicable diseases, including chronic respiratory conditions, by 25% by
2025[1].
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major concern in this context.
While the disease is the 2nd
leading cause of death and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in India[2],
a recent study revealed that a staggering 54% of
COPD-diagnosed patients had no knowledge about the disease1. This highlights a clear gap in the effective management of COPD,
where awareness plays a crucial role in instigating the process of detection, diagnosis,
and intervention. Therefore, on this World COPD Day, medical experts across the
nation unite under the global theme of, 'Breathing is Life - Act Earlier,'
highlighting the pivotal role of heightened disease awareness in improving disease
control, quality of life as well as life expectancy for those grappling with
this condition.
An umbrella term for
a group of chronic inflammatory lung disorders, COPD is characterized by
obstructed airflow and damage to the lungs. Risk factors range from, exposure
to indoor pollution e.g., Chulha smoke, tobacco smoke, outdoor air pollution, to
occupational-related pollutants in industries like agriculture.2 To
confirm a COPD diagnosis, a crucial lung function test called spirometry is
necessary, which measures the amount of air one can breathe in and out, depicting the lung
function of an individual[3]. Although
irreversible, the condition is manageable with appropriate treatment
strategies, implemented in a timely manner. However, for patients to actively pursue a
diagnosis, engage in self-management programs, and make effective use of treatment
action plans, it is imperative for them to be able to identify triggers, as
well as early symptoms of the condition.
Highlighting the role
of better disease awareness for the early detection and treatment of COPD Dr.
Konathala Sureendra, Consultant Chest Physician, Vishakhapatnam said, “In
a country with diverse medical practices, awareness plays a crucial role in
promoting disease diagnosis and rational treatment. Since COPD is a progressive condition, it is essential
to control it before there is a significant decline in lung function as well as
worsening of symptoms like breathlessness, cough, sputum production, wheezing,
and chest tightness[4],[5]. In fact, with the festive season upon us, the
potential exposure to triggers like smoke and airborne pollutants can even result
in a flare-up of the disease or a lung attack which can take patients a
month or longer to completely recover from.”
Adding on he said, “With
nearly two-thirds of cases remaining undiagnosed and only one-fifth receiving
rational inhalation treatment, raising awareness can save lives by making sure
more people get the care they need1. The goal of any COPD management
plan is to halt progression and reduce decline, and this hinges on a better
understanding of the disease and its treatment. Bronchodilator inhalers are
crucial for treating COPD, and programs like pulmonary rehabilitation can
greatly enhance quality of life[6]. For certain patient populations,
e.g., those who have trouble inhaling quickly, nebulized treatments serve as a
viable option, especially with portable devices for home care. This can be
particularly effective during acute exacerbations.[7] "
World COPD Day 2023 serves as a global call to
action to raise awareness about the condition and stress upon the importance of
early lung health in COPD management. However,
awareness efforts must be met by an ecosystem that enables better access to
healthcare support. For example, to commemorate this important day in the
country’s journey to improving lung health on a national level, Cipla conducts nationwide
lung screening camps to increase awareness and opportunities for diagnosis of COPD.
This is in addition to initiatives like ‘Breathefree’. With both a physical and digital presence i.e.,
the Breathefree Digital Educator, it encompasses the complete patient journey
in the areas of screening, counselling, and treatment adherence. Programs like
these are important to help patients effectively manage their lung health,
enabling better patient outcomes.
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