New Delhi: Winter is coming and we can already feel the chills of it, with the chills comes the rise of respiratory infections. As per reports, the rising incidence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) among younger populations is a concerning trend, particularly with the arrival of winters exacerbating respiratory issues. Several factors contribute to this alarming increase. Moreover, cold air often leads to chronic lung diseases that mostly spell trouble.
Dr Vivek Anand Padegal, Director – Pulmonology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore shared with News9“Exposure to air pollution, especially particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), is a significant risk factor, and younger individuals are more likely to be exposed due to increased outdoor activities. The growing prevalence of smoking and vaping among youth also plays a crucial role, as these habits damage lung function and increase COPD risk.”
“To combat this, early lung testing for smokers and smoking cessation programs are essential. Additionally, genetic predisposition, indoor air pollution from biomass burning or poor ventilation, and occupational exposures (e.g., construction, mining) further elevate risk.”
Climate change, with its associated temperature fluctuations and increased particulate matter, also contributes to COPD’s rise. Furthermore, delayed diagnosis and inadequate treatment of underlying conditions like asthma and respiratory infections can progress to COPD. Lifestyle factors, such as physical inactivity and obesity, also worsen lung function.
Winter and rise in respiratory infections
“As winters approach, colder temperatures, increased indoor pollution, and viral respiratory infections will further exacerbate COPD symptoms. To address this comprehensive public health initiatives, education, early interventions, and preventive measures like early lung function testing for smokers, smoking cessation programs, air quality monitoring and improvement, increased physical activity, healthy lifestyle promotion, enhanced vaccination coverage (e.g., flu, pneumonia) are crucial to curb the rising tide of COPD among younger populations,” said Dr Padegal.
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