Overview
- Global messaging under the theme “Short of Breath, Think COPD” highlights widespread underdiagnosis and calls for active case-finding using spirometry.
- India’s health minister said NP‑NCD services are prioritising screening and referrals through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs to reduce the country’s COPD burden.
- Local programmes rolled out lung checks and education, including a Hyderabad offer of PFT plus specialist consult for Rs 400 through November 22 and Cumbria outreach tied to its lung health checks.
- Clinicians report a growing share of cases in non‑smokers and women linked to outdoor smog and indoor exposures, with winter pollution driving flare‑ups and hospital visits.
- Experts stress prevention and management through quitting tobacco with nicotine replacement therapy, vaccination, inhaled therapies, and pulmonary rehabilitation to slow progression and reduce exacerbations.