COPD is a group of lung diseases that include long-term lung diseases which are characterized by shortness of breath, such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema and chronic asthma which isn't fully reversible.
‘The total number of deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is likely to increase by more than 30% in the next decade.’
Smokers or people with a history of smoking are at higher risk for COPD. Exposure to pollution and other irritants can also increase the risk of developing COPD. In India, asthma and COPD affect approximately 100 million people.
Globally, India contributes to a significant percentage of COPD mortality. There are 30 million COPD sufferers in the country. People with COPD are more susceptible to cold and are likely to suffer from recurring bouts of flu or pneumonia.
COPD is the fifth leading cause of death. The total number of deaths from COPD was projected to increase by more than 30% in the next decade. Thus it is important to take action to reduce the underlying risk factors such as tobacco.
Source: Medindia
