Opening of Asthma Precision Clinic and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Services coincides with World COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) Day observed on Wednesday (Nov 20, 2024)
It is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, approximately 5% of all global deaths, and eighth leading marker of poor health, yet it is most neglected. In India, there are 70 million (7 crore) patients of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), 6% of whom suffer from serious asthma, a condition in which despite treatment and care symptoms remain uncontrolled.
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Coinciding with the World COPD Day, organized by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) with “Know Your Lung Function” as the theme for 2024, pulmonologists from Paras Health (hospital) Panchkula at a press conference on Wednesday announced the launch two dedicated facilities to provide focused care for respiratory diseases such as severe asthma and COPD under one roof.
Pulmonologists Dr Robin Gupta, Dr SK Gupta and Dr Kritarth shared with the media persons that the aim of the newly launched Asthma Precision Clinic and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) services is to address the rising burden of respiratory conditions in the region by offering innovative diagnostics, personalized treatments, and comprehensive support.
Cautioning people against ignoring symptoms like chronic cough, breathlessness and fatigue as normal, related to change of season or advancing age, etc., the doctors advised medical consultation and investigations in such cases before these conditions develop into more serious respiratory diseases.
This assumes greater importance especially in the wake of recent severe air pollution being witnessed in several parts of North India because poor air quality exacerbates conditions like asthma and COPD and increases the risk of pneumonia and lung cancer.
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They informed that the Asthma Precision Clinic is designed to deliver individualized care to patients with severe asthma. By integrating biological therapies, FeNO (Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide) testing, and skin prick testing, the clinic ensures precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.
Biological therapies specifically target inflammatory pathways to manage severe asthma symptoms, while FeNO testing provides real-time insights into airway inflammation for more accurate treatment adjustments. Skin prick testing helps identify allergen triggers, allowing patients to adopt customized allergen management strategies.
The lung experts further shared that introduction of the Asthma Precision Clinic is a crucial step toward improving asthma care in the region. By focusing on individualized treatment and addressing specific triggers, the aim is to help patients achieve better asthma control and lead healthier lives.
The Pulmonary Rehabilitation programme will provide comprehensive support to patients suffering from COPD. This multidisciplinary approach focuses on improving lung function, reducing symptoms such as breathlessness and fatigue, and enhancing overall quality of life.
The programme incorporates exercise training, disease management education, behavioral counseling, nutrition advice, and psychosocial support to ensure a holistic treatment experience. It will not only reduce hospitalizations but also help patients regain independence and improve their mental well-being through targeted interventions.
About World COPD Day
It is organized by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) in collaboration with health care professionals and COPD patient groups throughout the world. Its aim is to raise awareness, share knowledge, and discuss ways to reduce the burden of COPD worldwide.
The 2024 theme for World COPD Day is “Know Your Lung Function.” World COPD Day takes place on November 20th. This year’s theme aims to highlight the importance of measuring lung function, also known as spirometry. Although spirometry is an integral tool for diagnosing COPD, it can also be used to measure lung health throughout life.
We now know that there are many other factors besides tobacco smoke that can contribute to COPD. Our lungs are continuing to grow from the womb all the way through young adulthood. Throughout this period, we are vulnerable to insults such as air pollution and respiratory infections that can impede lung growth and increase our risk for developing chronic lung disease later in life.
Unfortunately, much lung function can be lost before we develop symptoms. Lung function is not only a predictor of lung health, but our overall health. Even small decrements in lung function are associated with increased risk of death. Measuring lung function throughout life can provide opportunities for early diagnosis and prompt treatment of multiple lung diseases, including COPD.
Following is the link to WHO website for more info on COPD: