November 21 is observed as World COPD Day. COPD is short for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which is a chronic inflammatory lung disease.
COPD is caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke. People with COPD are at increased risk of developing heart disease, lung cancer and a variety of other conditions.
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Knowing the risk factors for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (#COPD) can help prevent #COPD or major #health complications caused by it. Spread the word. In case of any symptoms suggestive of #COPD visit a doctor.https://t.co/rUjrOC11rV #WorldCOPDDay #SwasthaBharat pic.twitter.com/J44UBzYbVm
— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) November 21, 2018
First observed in 2002, this day was founded by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD).
According to WHO reports, there are 250 million people suffering from COPD in the world and more than 3 million people die each year from COPD.
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It’s World Chronic Pulmonary Disease Day.
DYK: More than 3 MILLION people die each year from #COPD.
3 MILLION people
3 MILLION lives
3 MILLION families affectedIt’s time for #HealthForAllhttps://t.co/6lFnFWZDGs pic.twitter.com/uwoq7OPf6R
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) November 16, 2018
Signs and symptoms of COPD:
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms often don’t appear until significant lung damage has occurred. Common symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Having to clear your throat first thing in the morning, due to excess mucus in your lungs
- A chronic cough that may produce mucus (sputum) that may be clear, white, yellow or greenish
- Fatigue
- Frequent respiratory infections
- The blueness of the lips or fingernail beds – cyanosis
- Unintended weight loss
- Swelling in ankles, feet or legs
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (#COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe chronic lung diseases that cause limitations in lung airflow. Know the common symptoms and see a doctor. https://t.co/rUjrOC11rV #WorldCOPDDay #SwasthaBharat pic.twitter.com/nrMG2gbYX0
— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) November 21, 2018
Causes:
The main cause of COPD in countries is tobacco smoking. In the developing world, COPD often occurs in people exposed to fumes from burning fuel for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated homes.
#COPD is likely to increase in coming years due to higher 🚬 prevalence & ageing populations in many countries
Tobacco kills people. Say #NoTobacco 🚭https://t.co/6lFnFWZDGs pic.twitter.com/alxIZPm6rH
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) November 16, 2018
Prevention:
The majority of cases are directly related to cigarette smoking, and the best way to prevent COPD is to never smoke or to quit smoking now.
Occupational exposure to chemical gases and dust is another risk factor for COPD. So, the best way to protect yourself is by using the respiratory protective equipment.
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