DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affects more men than women, with the disease ranking as the third leading cause of death globally in 2021. An estimated 3.5 million people lose their lives to COPD each year.
This was stated by the representatives of the Pakistan Chest Society Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The representatives observed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day on November 20, aiming to raise awareness about chronic shortness of breath and the growing threat of respiratory diseases.
Addressing a press conference at the Peshawar Press Club, President of the Society, Professor Sadia Ashraf, along with Professor Mukhtiar Zaman and Dr Rukhsana Javed, underscored the urgent need to combat the rise of COPD, particularly in light of increasing environmental pollution in the country.
Professor Ashraf revealed alarming statistics, noting that the prevalence of COPD has tripled globally in recent years, with the disease being more common in countries where tobacco smoking and unchecked cigarette use are widespread.
COPD affects more men than women, and in 2021, it ranked third among leading causes of death worldwide, claiming approximately 3.5 million lives annually.
The experts highlighted key environmental factors contributing to the rise in COPD cases, including indoor and outdoor pollution, the burning of chemicals, and household use of coal and wood, which release harmful smoke and chemicals. This, they explained, significantly increases the risk of respiratory diseases.
“COPD is a debilitating condition that affects the respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, coughing with mucus, and wheezing,” said Professor Ashraf. “It has been a longstanding issue in Pakistan, and we can save many lives by focusing on prevention and improving the environment.”
The Chest Society officials stressed the importance of collective action in raising awareness and improving preventative measures. They called on the Department of Health, the Environment Department, governmental agencies, as well as non-governmental organizations, to take active roles in educating the public about COPD prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment.
The experts emphasized that tackling the root environmental causes and adopting preventive measures are essential steps in controlling the spread of COPD and reducing its mortality rate.
