World COPD Day: Expert Flags Rising Burden of Lung Disease

Mohali, November 18, 2025: On World COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Day, Dr Suresh Goyal, Director, Pulmonology, Shalby Hospital Mohali, expressed concern over the growing burden of lung diseases and stressed the need for timely lifestyle interventions to protect lung health.

Dr Goyal said that despite being preventable and treatable, COPD continues to be a major global health challenge. The disease claims nearly 3.5 million lives worldwide each year, while India accounts for about 8.5 lakh deaths annually. Calling cigarette smoking, air pollution, biomass fuel exposure and occupational exposure to dust and fumes the most significant risk factors, he noted that a single cigarette reduces life expectancy by 11 minutes and increases the risk of multiple cancers, including those of the lungs, food pipe, mouth, kidneys, pancreas and urinary bladder.

Highlighting this year’s theme, “Short of Breath, Think COPD,” Dr Goyal said it reflects the widespread lack of awareness among the public. Many patients, he noted, reach healthcare facilities only after considerable and irreversible lung damage has occurred. Lung function begins to decline long before symptoms like chronic cough or breathlessness appear, which makes early screening—especially through Spirometry—essential, he added.

He also drew attention to the deteriorating air quality across India, particularly the seasonal smog during October and November, which contributes significantly to the rise in respiratory illnesses. From recurring pneumonia to worsening asthma, poor air quality weakens immunity and aggravates lung-related conditions, he said.

Urging people to adopt preventive measures, Dr Goyal advised quitting smoking, exercising regularly, practising breathing techniques and undergoing periodic lung check-ups. These steps, he said, can help improve lung capacity and overall quality of life. For better respiratory health, he recommended incorporating amla, citrus fruits, spinach, carrots, turmeric and green tea into the diet. Foods such as walnuts, flaxseeds and fish oil also offer significant benefits, he added.