Five takeaways about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

The third Wednesday in November is World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day, an annual global campaign organized by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) to raise awareness about COPD, one of the most common and preventable respiratory diseases worldwide. This year's World COPD Day, with the theme "Short of Breath, Think COPD," takes place on November 19, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of COPD. 

As we observe World COPD Day, it's important to raise awareness about COPD. The message is clear: early diagnosis and prevention are essential to lessen the disease's impact. Here are some key facts about COPD that everyone should know.

What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?

According to the Mayo Clinic, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-term lung condition caused by damage to the lungs. This damage leads to swelling and irritation, known as inflammation, which blocks the airways and restricts airflow into and out of the lungs.

Causes of COPD

Globally, tobacco smoking is the leading cause of COPD. The condition also frequently occurs in people exposed to smoke from burning fuel used for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated homes. Long-term exposure to workplace chemical fumes, vapors, and dust is another major cause of COPD, according to Mayo Clinic experts.

Symptoms of COPD

Symptoms of COPD often don't appear until significant lung damage has occurred and typically worsen over time. Common warning signs include a chronic cough, frequent phlegm, shortness of breath, and worsening breathing difficulties.

Prevention of COPD

COPD is widely known for its "three highs and three lows": high incidence of the disease, high disability rate, and high mortality; low awareness, low diagnosis rate, and low control rate.

Although COPD is a chronic illness that can worsen if not treated, it is manageable with early diagnosis and proper care. Timely intervention can reduce the risk of other related complications, such as heart disease and lung cancer.

As experts suggest, the most important preventive measure is to quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. It is also essential to avoid harmful substances. People in specific industries who are frequently exposed to dust, toxic gases, or heavy-metal particles should strengthen their workplace protective measures. Furthermore, it is essential to avoid air pollution and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are the key method for diagnosing COPD and other chronic respiratory diseases. Healthcare experts recommend that adults aged 40 and older have PFTs at least once a year. High-risk groups should also undergo PFTs as early as possible, including people who have had repeated respiratory infections in childhood, those with a family history of COPD, and individuals who have developed chronic airway inflammation or structural airway damage due to conditions like tuberculosis.

China's efforts on COPD control

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 100 million people in China are currently living with COPD. In recent years, by issuing strategic policies and regulations and raising public awareness, China has greatly enhanced its screening and management capabilities for COPD in primary care, leading to earlier detection and more standardized treatment at the community level.

Based on data modeling and analysis, over the ten years since the implementation of the Beijing Smoking Control Regulation, an estimated more than 420,000 COPD cases have been prevented, and the hospitalization rate for COPD has decreased by 8.8 percent annually on average.

China continues to build a nationwide collaborative network with the WHO, focused on COPD prevention and control. Professor Chen Wang, director of the WHO Collaborating Center in China, mentioned that China aims to advance its COPD care capabilities and contribute to the global fight against the disease.

With stronger primary care, increased public awareness, and expanding international collaboration, China is steadily advancing in COPD testing and effective treatment.