Early screening and management: Safeguarding lung health

As winter approaches, the risk of respiratory illnesses intensifies, drawing greater attention to lung health.

November 20 marks the 23rd World COPD Day, with the theme "Know Your Lung Function." This event underscores the significance of spirometry, a critical diagnostic tool for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which measures lung function.

COPD is a preventable and treatable condition characterized by breathlessness, chronic sputum production, and a persistent cough. It is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, causing 3.5 million deaths in 2021, approximately 5 percent of all global deaths, according to data from the World Health Organization. 

The number is poised to rise due to an aging global population and ongoing exposure to risk factors such as tobacco smoke. Inhalation of tobacco smoke and other toxic particles and gases are the primary risk factors for COPD.

COPD isn't curable, but it can get better by not smoking, avoiding air pollution and getting vaccines. It can be treated with medicines, oxygen and pulmonary rehabilitation.

In China, where COPD affects nearly 100 million individuals and ranks as the third leading cause of death, the disease remains largely undiagnosed. Public awareness is less than 10 percent, and only 3 percent of those affected are aware of their condition.

At a respiratory health forum in May, Chinese medical scientist Zhong Nanshan emphasizes the need for routine lung function tests, akin to blood pressure monitoring, for early diagnosis and intervention of COPD.

To underscore the critical nature of early detection and management of COPD, the National Health Commission of China has incorporated COPD health services into its fundamental public health program, according to a notice released by the commission in September.

This integration enables community health centers and township health clinics to offer lung function screenings and standardized treatments, aiming to boost early detection, raise awareness, and improve the quality of life for COPD patients.

Following this approach, primary healthcare institutions will establish health records for individuals over 35 who have been diagnosed. These institutions will carry out regular health checks and follow-ups to modify treatment plans in response to changes in lung function, thereby ensuring standardized disease management.