World COPD Day: watch out the 'silent killer'

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With a prevalence of 251 million global cases in 2016, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) has become one of the top silent killers in China, threatening millions of lives, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

In 2015, the disease was responsible for 3.17 million deaths.

In order to raise awareness and improve care surrounding COPD, WHO declared November 21 every year "World COPD Day" to offer better treatment and prevention measures to those in need.

Diagram of the lungs /VCG Photo

WHO defines COPD as a progressive life-threatening lung disease that is characterized by a persistent reduction of airflow.

People living with the disease will find it difficult to empty air from their lungs since the airways have been narrowed.

The more familiar terms “chronic bronchitis” and “emphysema” have often been used as labels for the condition.

Risk factors

The primary cause of COPD is exposure to tobacco smoke (either active smoking or secondhand smoke).

Other risk factors include exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution and occupational dusts and fumes, according to WHO.

Smoking is a risk factor for COPD. /VCG Photo

Common, serious, but preventable disease

Especially prevalent during the winter, COPD is common in low and middle-income countries, where effective strategies for prevention and control are not always implemented or accessible.

People over 40 or children with a family history of the disease are particularly vulnerable. Moreover, people who live in areas that expose them constantly to smoke and dust are at high risk for the disease.

Although COPD is quite common, most people don't take it seriously. "One thing to explain the disease often neglected by people is that it has no early signs. People won't take it seriously when they just cough," said Shi Huanzhong, the director of the respiratory intensive care unit at the Chaoyang Hospital in Beijing.

People over 40 or kids with a family history of the disease are vulnerable to it. /VCG Photo

Doctors suggest people who are allergic to dust or chemicals, or have a history of chronic cough or asthma should be alerted when they have the suspected symptoms.

When talking about the prevention measures and diagnosis, Zhang Hong, an expert with the Peking Union Medical College Hospital, one of the top hospitals in China, told the reporter that pulmonary function test is the doctor's first choice when diagnosing COPD. The test can detect symptoms at a very early stage, making it possible for early intervention treatment.

3 tips to manage COPD naturally

VCG Photo

Quit smoking: The most effective and cheapest way to prevent the disease. Now you have one more reason to push you away from the bad habit!

Physical exercise: People with chronic lung disease may find it difficult when strenuous exercise makes them breathless. But some light activities like aerobics, walking and jogging can help ease the symptoms.

Avoid allergens: Dust, smoke, chemicals, or anything that you are allergic to should be avoided.