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SARGODHA, Nov 21 (APP):The World COPD Day was observed on Friday to raise public awareness about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), focusing on its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Dr. Sikandar Hayat Warraich, a former pulmonologist at Dr. Faisal Masood Teaching Hospital, spoke to the media about the devastating impact of COPD. He described the disease as a debilitating condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways in the lungs, leading to severe breathing difficulties.
“Left untreated, COPD gradually worsens and can drastically reduce quality of life,” Dr. Warraich warned, stressing the importance of early intervention.
Highlighting the alarming prevalence of the disease in Pakistan, Dr. Warraich revealed that approximately 6.9 million people in the country are currently living with COPD. He noted that around 10 percent of people over the age of 40 suffer from the condition, but public awareness remains low.
The primary risk factors for COPD include smoking, air pollution, industrial chemicals, and environmental smoke. Dr. Warraich outlined common symptoms, including shortness of breath, persistent coughing, chest tightness, excessive phlegm production, and rapid fatigue during routine activities.
To prevent the onset of COPD, Dr. Warraich strongly recommended that individuals quit smoking, use face masks in polluted or smoky environments, and ensure proper ventilation in both homes and workplaces. He also encouraged regular lung function tests, a healthy diet, and light physical exercise.
In closing, Dr. Warraich urged the community to commit to improving air quality and adopting healthier lifestyles in 2025, to help reduce the burden of COPD and build a disease-free society.