Smoking remains the leading cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but its effects extend far beyond tobacco. This insidious lung condition, characterized by shortness of breath, cough, and excessive mucus production, whispers of environmental toxins, genetic predisposition, and occupational hazards.
Dr. Ashok K. Rajput, Senior Consultant, Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, in an interview with HT Lifestyle said that the smokescreen masks many factors such as: .
- invisible enemy: Fine dust from industrial processes, air pollution in crowded cities, and even burning biomass fuels in poorly ventilated homes can all quietly contribute to decreased lung function.
- Passive smoking: Sharing the air with smokers exposes you to harmful toxins and increases your risk of developing COPD.
- Recurrent respiratory infections: Frequent bouts of respiratory illness and bronchitis in childhood can leave permanent damage to delicate lung tissue, paving the way for future COPD. Long-standing asthma and similar chronic lung diseases can cause airway remodeling, similar to COPD.
- Indoor pollution: Cooking smoke, chemical detergents, and even mold spores in the home can also irritate and damage the airways, leading to the development of COPD.
He says recognizing the complex tapestry of causes can shed light on the true face of COPD. This change in perspective opens up the next path –
- Targeted prevention strategies: Public policy changes focused on improving air quality and preventing indoor pollution can significantly reduce risk factors.
- Early diagnosis and intervention: Awareness and screening programs will identify at-risk individuals and facilitate timely intervention to prevent irreversible lung damage.
- Comprehensive treatment plan: Tailor-made treatment plans that address the multifactorial nature of COPD can improve symptom management and optimize quality of life.
Dr. Ashok K. Rajput said: We need to look beyond the smokescreen and commit to driving clean air initiatives. We advocate for sustainable practices and stricter regulations to reduce air pollution. Ensure everyone has access to comprehensive COPD diagnosis, treatment and support services. Educate individuals about the different causes of COPD and help them take control of their lung health. Together, we can build a future where everyone can breathe free, free from the silent threats that lurk in the air we breathe. ”
Dr. Manoj Kuteli, Medical Director and CEO of Atmanthan Wellness Center, similarly agrees that while smoking remains the main risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), environmental toxins, occupational He said that prolonged exposure to the above risks, genetic predisposition may also contribute to its development. Beyond conventional treatments such as steroids, bronchodilators, and oxygen therapy, effective management of his COPD requires a holistic approach. This includes addressing comorbidities, implementing lifestyle changes, and improving overall quality of life. COPD is characterized by airway narrowing and severe airway inflammation, which can be caused by factors other than smoking, including exposure to chemicals, dust, environmental pollution, and genetic disorders. ”
He said: “It is often essential for people with COPD to adopt a healthy and supportive lifestyle to properly manage their disease. Smoking can significantly worsen respiratory symptoms and reduce lung function. Regular physical activity, according to each individual's ability, improves lung function, endurance, and overall health. Respiratory irritants at home A COPD-friendly environment with adequate ventilation and air quality must be created to reduce exposure to I will fulfill my role.”
“Effective COPD management is centered around maintaining a nutritious and balanced diet,” he says. “Given the potential for muscle wasting in people with COPD, it's important to have enough protein to maintain muscle strength.” Maintaining intake is paramount. Optimal dietary choices include a rich variety of fruits and vegetables that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to overall health and respiratory health. Adopting a pattern of small, frequent meals throughout the day not only helps you maintain your nutritional intake, but it also helps you breathe easier and prevents satiety. It also promotes mucus clearance and improves respiratory function. It is important to stay well hydrated as it contributes to the improvement of lung capacity, breathing. The ancient yoga practice of pranayama, or controlled breathing, is an adjunctive method for COPD patients. Please join us as it is a useful tool for improving function and relaxation for COPD patients.”
Dr Neil Thakkar, Senior Consultant Pulmonary and Critical Care Physician at Stirling Hospital, Vadodara, similarly brings to the table his own expertise, saying: , and social well-being. Understanding and addressing the complex factors that influence health, from lifestyle choices to environmental exposures, is essential to comprehensive care and effective management of chronic diseases such as COPD. is. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) extends far beyond smoking and is a major global health concern. Beyond the traditional risk factor of smoking, exposure to high levels of air pollution has emerged as a significant cause of COPD, accounting for more than half of cases in India alone. On December 12 this year (2023), Maninagar in Ahmedabad had an air quality index of 151, the same as Mumbai's Bandra-Kurla Complex, which is considered poor by air quality standards. ”
Emphasizing the critical need for a broader approach to COPD care, he said: Non-pharmacological treatments are also important. For example, to quit smoking or cigarettes, choosing a quit date, notifying everyone, anticipating problems, and removing items from the environment are important. All are beneficial. People with severe COPD, especially those with pulmonary arterial hypertension or low oxygen levels during exertion, require oxygen therapy as it improves both survival and quality of life. Oral Innovative approaches such as vibration devices and positive airway pressure devices provide targeted relief and individualized rehabilitation plans for patients whose symptoms persist despite standard treatments, including lung volume reduction surgery and Surgical options such as transplantation should be considered in advanced cases when possible.”
He said: “The interaction between COPD and vaccination has gained importance in recent conversations. Vaccines are receiving attention in research including new global strategies for the prevention, diagnosis and management of COPD. GOLD 2024 The advisory recommends respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination for people over 60 years of age, highlighting the evolving landscape of COPD care, where preventive measures are needed to manage the disease and reduce symptoms. COPD ranks as the third leading cause of death worldwide, and the call to action is clear.'Breathing is life.act early”, highlighting the important need for recognition. Through a united effort, we can work to reduce the impact of this prevalent respiratory disease and improve the well-being of those affected. ”
