Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a serious lung condition primarily caused by long-term smoking and prolonged exposure to severe pollution from chulhas, vehicles, and industrial emissions. Although modern medicine can manage the symptoms, it is nearly impossible to reverse the damage once it occurs.
Unlike diabetes and hypertension—which often develop beyond an individual’s control—COPD is largely a consequence of personal habits. Fortunately, it is entirely preventable. By avoiding smoking and minimizing exposure to polluted environments, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing COPD in later years.
Highlighting this, Rachakonda Police Commissioner G. Sudheer Babu emphasized, “Your health is in your hands. If you stay away from harmful habits, many of these problems will not come near you. To prevent breathlessness and protect your lungs, quitting smoking is essential.” He shared these remarks while attending a program at Kamineni Hospital, LB Nagar, on the occasion of International COPD Day.
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection plays a critical role in limiting the extent of lung damage. Typically, COPD symptoms become noticeable only after the age of 60, when individuals begin experiencing shortness of breath. Commissioner Sudheer Babu noted that COPD often becomes “a punishment one faces in their 60s for the mistakes made in their 20s.”
As per the press release, the Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is the only accurate diagnostic tool for COPD. Although it generally costs around ₹3,000, Kamineni Hospital is offering the test along with a pulmonologist consultation for just ₹400 until the 22nd of this month. People who smoke or are already experiencing respiratory discomfort are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.
How Smoking and Pollution Lead to COPD
Senior Consultant Pulmonologist Dr. Ravinder Reddy explained that smoking 10 cigarettes a day for 20 years—or 20 cigarettes a day for 10 years—can significantly increase the risk of COPD. The disease often remains silent until after the age of 60. Even those who quit smoking earlier may still experience symptoms later in life as their immunity weakens.
Furthermore, exposure to smoke from traditional chulhas and severe air pollution can also trigger COPD. However, not all smokers develop the disease; only about 20% show symptoms. Dr. Reddy stressed that individuals diagnosed with COPD must take pneumonia and influenza vaccines to prevent complications.
He added that COPD narrows the airways, making breathing increasingly difficult. Unlike asthma—which is fully curable—COPD is irreversible. The Pulmonary Function Test remains the only reliable method to identify it. Therefore, smokers, people exposed to stove smoke, and individuals living in polluted areas should undergo PFT to detect any early signs of lung damage.
Expert Participation
Senior Consultant Pulmonologist Dr. Shubhakar Kandi, Dr. Ravindranath, Consultant Pulmonologist Dr. D. S. Soujanya, Dr. Bharat Janapati, Medical Superintendent Dr. Anjaiah Kanusoli, and KAMSRC Principal Dr. Sudheer Babu Padgul also participated in the program and addressed the gathering.