New Delhi: World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day is observed every year on 17 November to spread awareness, share knowledge and discuss ways to reduce the burden of COPD around the world. The theme of this year’s day is “Healthy Lungs – Never More Important” as the world grapples with the deadly COVID-19 pandemic that can seriously damage a patient’s lungs.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide. It is a preventable but progressively worsening and incurable disease characterized by inflammation of the airways and damage to the airspaces that help transfer oxygen to the blood.
“Smoking is the biggest risk factor, however, pollution, both indoor and outdoor, has been attributed to further worsening of COPD. Several studies have shown a greater decline in lung function when a person with COPD increased the amount of NO2 in the air and more. Long exposure to particulate matter,” shares Dr Priyas Vaidya Consultant-Pulmonologist and Sleep Medicine Specialist, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi-A Fortis Network Hospital.
Air pollution can aggravate COPD
Air pollution can prove to be harmful for patients suffering from COPD. India is one of the most polluted regions worldwide and according to a Greenpeace study, the average concentration of PM2.5 in New Delhi in 2020 was almost 17 times higher than the recommended levels. Pollution levels were eight times higher in Mumbai, nine times higher in Kolkata and five times higher in Chennai.
“Smoking is the biggest risk factor, however, pollution, both indoor and outdoor, has been attributed to worsening COPD. Several studies have shown that when a person with COPD is exposed to long-term exposure to NO2 and particulate matter in the air. Detection of increased interleukin-8 (IL-8) in sputum and serum samples of COPD patients exposed to polluted air may explain the increased inflammatory response. The cause has been found,” shares Dr Vaidya.
He further elaborates, “An increase in IL-8 is associated with an increased exacerbation of COPD. An increase in hospitalization of COPD patients due to air pollution exposure has been proven by APHEA, a European body. Zhu and A meta-analysis by his colleagues showed a 2.7 percent increase in COPD hospitalizations, with a daily 10 mcg/cubic meter increase in PM 10. Indoor air pollution caused by fumes from biomass fuels in several studies from developing countries. causes COPD.
Winter weather can aggravate COPD
Changes in weather and temperature can increase the problems in COPD patients. Exposure to cold air can cause bronchospasm. Cold air can cause dryness and irritation of the lining of the airways, which can worsen symptoms.
“People with COPD should take all precautions to protect themselves from the cold by wearing full-sleeved layers. Wear socks to cover your feet. Always cover your nose and mouth with a mask or fresh cloth when you go out. The common cold and flu that flare up in the winter can be harmful to people with COPD. Avoid contact with sick people,” advises Dr Chetan Rao Vaddepally, Consultant Pulmonologist, Yashoda Hospital Hyderabad.
Precautions for COPD Management
COPD is a treatable disease. The treatment plan revolves around alleviating symptoms, reducing the rate of decline in lung function, improving quality of life, and preventing exacerbations. Below are some tips by Dr. Vaidya to manage COPD.
- Have a yearly pulmonary function test (PFT) or spirometry done to know the severity and appropriate treatment plan
- stick to the treatment plan and know the right way to take inhaled medicines
- Get vaccinated against Streptococcus pneumoniae, flu, and the SARS-CoV-2 virus
- Get moderate exercise and have proper protein intake in the diet
- Avoid outdoor activities before sunrise to reduce exposure to pollutants in the air
- Keep a check on blood pressure, sugar and heart function with regular checkups
- Pay attention to worsening of symptoms and seek medical attention promptly
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