By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 26 Nov: Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dehradun, held a press conference on COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) awareness to promote healthy lungs and the importance of early intervention on the occasion of World COPD Day. The programme aims to educate the public and ensure efforts against respiratory diseases.
The press conference was conducted in the presence of pulmonologists, Dr Vivek Verma and Dr Vaibhav Chachra. The doctors highlighted the importance of the disease.
COPD is the second leading cause of death among non-communicable diseases globally and the fourth leading cause of death overall. The recent spike in pollution levels in Dehradun has led to a noticeable rise in lung-related diseases, with COPD being one of the most prevalent. COPD, which develops gradually, worsens over time, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to breathe. Over time, the condition can deteriorate if not treated correctly at the right time.
Dr Vaibhav Chachra shared an insightful case of 61-year-old patient Anurodh Chamoli who had been battling with COPD. He shared that, “Mr Chamoli who was linked to addiction of smoking came to Max three years ago and was suffering from breathing difficulties and in a deteriorating condition. He was intubated and placed on a ventilator in the ICU. After a few days under critical observation, he showed significant improvement and has since fully recovered, continuing with regular check-ups,” shared Dr Chachra.
He added, “COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a chronic lung disease that primarily obstructs airflow in the lungs, causing inflammation and making it difficult to breathe. This condition also leads to excessive mucus production, coughing, and other respiratory issues. If not treated properly and in time, COPD can become life-threatening and lead to severe heart problems, lung cancer, and other critical illnesses. Dr Chachra pointed out that rising pollution levels are also contributing to the increase in lung diseases, including COPD. Dr Chachra also mentioned that the disease is more common among people in middle age (40 years or older). The primary causes of COPD include smoking, prolonged exposure to air pollution, chemical fumes, dust, and smoke from traditional cooking methods.”
Dr Vivek Verma further elaborated that “COPD primarily exists in two forms: Emphysema – in which the air sacs and their walls are damaged, leading to the enlargement of the air sacs; and Chronic Bronchitis – a condition where the lining of the airways becomes inflamed and thickened, causing excessive mucus production and difficulty in breathing.
Dr Verma emphasised that while COPD cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed and controlled with proper treatment and preventive measures.
