Free COPD Check-Up Camps at AJ Hospital and Fr Muller’s
As part of World COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Day 2016, AJ Institute of Medical Sciences and Hospital-Kuntikhan, Mangaluru; and Fr Muller Hospital-Kankanady, Mangaluru, have set up Free CODP consultation Camps from 14 Nov- 19 Nov from 8.30 am-5pm.
Mangaluru: “World COPD Day is organized worldwide by GOLD ( Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease ), an international body involved in the treatment and care of COPD patients. It is held on every 3rd Wednesday of November to create awareness about COPD ( Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) among the public. Emphasis is on prevention of COPD” said Dr Alka Bhat- Secretary of Mangaluru Chest Association (MCA), during a press meet held at Mangalore Press Club.
Dr Bhat further said, “Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive life threatening lung disease that causes breathlessness, cough, excessive phlegm production which increases over time causing serious illness and lungs become weaker with time. COPD is a common disease. About 7 to 10 % people suffer from COPD. It is the 4th leading cause of death worldwide. About 30 lakh people died of COPD in 2015 ( i.e. 5% of total deaths in 2015 ) worldwide. More than 90% of COPD deaths occur in low and middle income countries.”
“The primary cause of COPD is exposure to tobacco smoke (either active smoking or second hand smoke). Any form of smoking like cigarette, bidis, pipe etc. can cause COPD. People who are not smokers but are exposed to smoke in the environment can also get COPD. Other risk factors include exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution and occupational dusts and fumes. Some cases of COPD are due to long-term asthma. COPD is likely to increase in coming years due to higher smoking prevalence and aging populations in many countries. COPD is a preventable disease. Many cases of COPD can be prevented by avoidance or early cessation of smoking ” added Dr Bhat.
While concluding Dr Alka Bhat said, “COPD is not fully curable, but treatment can relieve symptoms, improve quality of life and reduce the risk of death. People who have above symptoms and who are smokers or are exposed to pollution can consult their Doctor and get themselves checked for COPD. A lung function test can be done to detect COPD. Each year GOLD chooses a theme on occasion of World COPD Day.
This year’s theme is “Breathe in the knowledge” . To provide Knowledge about COPD, the understanding of disease condition, the tests and treatment available and its prevention. On occasion of this day, I would like to request people to live in a smoke free and pollution free environment to avoid COPD.”
For more details about the COPD Camps call : Fr Muller Hospital, Phone:0824 223 8000; and AJ Institute of Medical Sciences and Hospital at 824 222 5533