Fortis Escorts Jaipur Highlights the Urgency of Early Diagnosis and Public Awareness as COPD Becomes Silent Epidemic in India

Fortis Escorts Jaipur Highlights the Urgency of Early Diagnosis and Public Awareness as COPD Becomes Silent Epidemic in India 

  Jaipur, November 2024: At a time when India ranks second globally in the prevalence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), affecting approximately 13.1% of the population, Fortis Escorts Jaipur emphasizes  on the critical need for early diagnosis, regular lung function assessments, and increased public awareness on the occasion of National COPD Day 2024. Often termed as "silent epidemic," COPD contributes to over 3 million deaths annually worldwide. With a substantial number of cases remaining undiagnosed in India, there is an urgent need to address this growing public health challenge. 

  November, observed as National COPD Month, focuses on the need for early diagnosis, improved treatment, and public awareness to combat this chronic disease. In India, COPD contributes to nearly 3% of the country's disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and is the second leading cause of death after heart disease. 

  This year’s theme, “Know Your Lung Function,” emphasizes the importance of spirometry—a simple, non-invasive test to assess lung health. Spirometry not only plays a crucial role in diagnosing COPD but also helps monitor lung function throughout life. The theme also highlights that COPD is caused by factors beyond tobacco use, including respiratory infections, asthma, tuberculosis, pneumonia, and low birth weight leading to underdeveloped lungs. 

  Dr. Vinod Sharma, Consultant Pulmonologist, Fortis Escorts Hospital Jaipur says “COPD remains one of the most underdiagnosed and undertreated conditions in India, despite its significant impact on public health. Early detection through simple tools like spirometry can transform patient outcomes by enabling timely interventions that reduce symptoms, improve lung function, and enhance quality of life. While smoking is a major cause, it’s crucial to recognize other contributors such as respiratory infections, asthma, tuberculosis, pneumonia, and even conditions like low birth weight leading to underdeveloped lungs. Raising awareness and ensuring accessible diagnostics are key to combating this silent epidemic” 

  Dr. Vinod Sharma, Senior Consultant Pulmonologist, Fortis Escorts Hospital Jaipur says “COPD is no longer confined to older adults; it is increasingly affecting younger generations due to rising air pollution, smoking, and untreated respiratory infections COPD is a significant health concern, particularly in India. Conducting early diagnosis through lung function tests, which can improve both quality and longevity of life. With risk factors such as smoking and air pollution, recognizing symptoms like persistent cough or shortness of breath early is critical. Awareness and timely intervention can save lives and ensure better health outcomes” 

  Experts at Fortis Escorts Hospital Jaipur suggest steps to prevent COPD: 

  Avoiding the use of tobacco smoking is the leading cause of COPD. Avoiding tobacco use or quitting smoking is the most effective way to reduce the risk. Additionally, steer clear of secondhand smoke and vaping, as these can also harm lung health. 

1. Limit exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollutants, including dust, fumes, and chemicals. Use protective equipment like masks in environments with harmful air quality and ensure proper ventilation in your living and working spaces. 
2. Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients to support lung health. Engage in regular physical activity to improve respiratory function and overall fitness. 
3. Get vaccinated against respiratory infections like influenza and pneumonia, which can worsen lung conditions. Early treatment of respiratory illnesses such as asthma or bronchitis can prevent the progression to COPD.