The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (GOLD), which is part of the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) that runs the World COPD Day is a worldwide campaign which intends to raise awareness on the pulmonary disease.

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The 19th annual World Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Day took place yesterday, 18th November 2020 to increase awareness about chronic inflammatory lung illness

To those curious about COPD, here’s our explanation:

Emphysema, a form of COPD that appears to pose danger to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, and chronic bronchitis that can further lead to inflammation of the bronchial tubes that transport air to and from the airways in the lungs, are the two most common causes that can lead to COPD.

Apart from that, smoking and exposure to chemicals or contaminants will contribute to COPD

The prevalence of COPD is increasing due to low ambient air quality in cities. Also, widely used items like mosquito repellent coils used at home can induce COPD, as exposure to it at night was found to be equal to smoking 100 cigarettes altogether.

Its treatment and ways to live a quality life after being diagnosed with COPD:

You doctor will advise you to opt for pulmonary rehabilitation. Extreme cases can require lung transplantation.
Do not self-medicate instead take medicine prescribed by the doctor. Take inhalers as advised by the doctor when necessary.
Vaccination against influenza and pneumonia is important to prevent serious infections. These infections cause critical care in patients with COPD.
If you smoke on a daily basis, give it up right now! Smoking continues to cause discomfort and inflammation of the lungs.
Learn to remain physically healthy by walking, running, cycling, swimming, aerobics, and even going to the gym to expel those extra kilos. Exercising helps promote good breathing methods.
Stress will make your situation worse. Do yoga or meditation in order to cool down and de-stress.
Keep the surroundings tidy. Ensure that the quality of air is fine at home.

The objective of the World COPD Day is to raise awareness and present new insights and effective treatment methods for COPD Patients worldwide

This year’s theme, “Live Well With COPD-Everybody, Everywhere,” aims to give a supportive message to all patients and caregivers that while there is no treatment for COPD, there are many ways to live well with this condition.

Worldwide education on such programmes will continue to increase awareness and encourage activism everywhere.

The goal of this initiative is to increase awareness of treatments such as pulmonary recovery, physical exercise, self-management and diet, as well as to demonstrate the importance of social and mental well-being.

Source: The Indian Express & FIRS