HMC observes 'World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Day

COPD is a long-term condition affecting a person’s lungs and body. It causes narrowing of airways resulting in difficulty breathing. Symptoms include chronic cough, mucus production, breathing difficulties, respiratory infections, fatigue, unintentional weight loss, and swelling of the feet and ankles. Exposure to tobacco smoke and other inhaled toxic particles and gases are the main risk factors for COPD. However, recent research has identified that suboptimal lung growth before and after birth can also increase the risk of COPD later in life. People with COPD are at an increased risk of developing heart disease, lung cancer, and various other conditions.The World COPD Day, marked on November 18, is a campaign organised by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease in collaboration with the World Health Organisation, healthcare professionals and COPD patient groups worldwide. It aims at raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and discussing ways to reduce the burden of COPD worldwide. Dr Mansoor Hameed, consultant pulmonologist at HMC, said: “Although COPD is a progressive disease that gets worse over time, it is very treatable. With proper management, most people with COPD can achieve reasonable symptom control, quality of life, and reduced risk of other associated conditions.”Under this year's theme, "Healthy Lungs – Never more Important," HMC joins healthcare professionals and organisations worldwide to educate people about controlling and preventing COPD. This year aims to highlight that the burden of COPD and in the context of the ongoing pandemic, there has never been a more crucial time to focus on lung health. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, stopping smoking, eating healthily, avoiding air pollution and toxic exposures, and exercising regularly, are all ways to keep your lungs healthy. Reducing Covid-19 risk as well as taking prescribed medications as needed can also help keep the lungs healthy.