World COPD Day 2019 was celebrated at KRIMS Hospitals on 19th November 2019. The Department of Pulmonology had conducted a camp which was attended by more than 100 COPD patients and their relatives. The program included a lecture by Dr Sameer Arbat in the vernacular language. Dr Sameer explained the causes of COPD and the ways to prevent it. The attendees were also taught the importance of inhalers and the correct technique. Dr Prajakta Borkar, physiotherapist elaborated the breathing exercises suitable for COPD patients.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable disease that causes shortness of breath, chronic sputum production and cough. There are 300 million current cases of COPD in the world. COPD is currently the 3rd leading cause of death globally and is highly prevalent in low resource countries. In India Non- communicable diseases (NCD) have accounted for 53 % of all deaths, of this COPD accounts for 7% death. It causes highest loss in potentially productive year of life. Crude estimate suggest there are 30 million COPD patients in India. Smoking is the most important risk factor for developing COPD (including Cigarette, vape, bidi, hukkah). Women with exposure to chulha smoke while cooking are mostly affected.
A research study performed at KRIMS Hospitals has shown the high prevalence of “Non-smoker COPD”. Dr Sameer Arbat was invited to present this research study at Spain, Thailand and the USA. This study on Non-smoker COPD generated a lot of interest and was also presented at the prestigious University of Rochester, New York by Dr Sameer Arbat. The study has been published widely in health news around South Asia region. Around 50% of all COPD patients were found to be non-smokers. Majority of the patients were women who were exposed to chulha smoke. The study is important because it throws new light on the serious health consequences of air pollution both inside and outside the homes. It also sends a warning to the long term ill effects of fumes and gasses produced in factories or industries.
“COPD is a preventable disease and educating people about hazards of smoking and air pollution can help in combating the increase in COPD cases”, commented Dr. Sameer Arbat. Dr Sameer Arbat is actively involved in conducting COPD Education & Guidance for the patients and their relatives by conducting a free clinic on every Tuesday from 9-10am. Through this clinic, patients are provided information, education and social guidance. Any patient can register for this free of charge.
World COPD Day has been organized by GOLD in collaboration with the World Health Organization each year in November since 2002. The goal of World COPD Day is to raise awareness and present new knowledge and novel therapeutic strategies for COPD worldwide. This year, the 18th annual World COPD Day will take place on November 20, 2019. This year’s theme, “All Together to End COPD” emphasizes the fact that many people are involved in the fight to end COPD. At every stage and at any age, there is an opportunity to prevent or treat COPD. From care providers, families and patients, to policy makers and employers – everyone can make an impact.
