The World observes Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) day every year on 15 November . It gives an opportunity to reiterate the importance of awareness about pulmonary issues. COPD is one of the largest killer diseases in the world and the burden of the disease is only growing.

In our country most common causes of COPD or risk factors include tobacco smoking, exposure to smoke, firewood burning or other biomass fuels etc. Worsening air quality, especially in urban areas is a matter of concern and there is a rising need to ensure that, we reach out to people to ensure early diagnosis and treatment. If left untreated, COPD affects heart, bones, lungs, can cause blood clotting –thromboembolism, can affect mental health etc. The quality of life of the individual is significantly affected with COPD if left undiagnosed and untreated.

Progressive breathlessness, wheeze, cough and sputum production are some of the symptoms which need to be watched for. Simple tests like spirometry can be useful to diagnose, understand the severity and monitor the treatment of COPD. Early management can avoid further complications and damage to lung and heart and provide a good quality life.

In an effort to reach out to the rural communities and those who don’t have enough access to medical facilities, KEM Hospital Research Centre Pune, last year, launched a short film to create awareness about respiratory diseases. The 15-minute film has been financially supported by the NIHR Global Health Research Unit in Respiratory Health (RESPIRE) at the University of Edinburgh, UK. This film is a story targeted at rural audiences which aims to raise awareness about respiratory health, focusing on COPD and Asthma, including risk factors, preventive measures, available treatments, and rehabilitation possibilities. The film also sheds light on the important work being done at the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Centre at KEM Vadu.

According to Dr. Parag Khatavkar, Senior Chest Physician, KEM Hospital Research Centre, respiratory diseases, especially COPD and Asthma are amongst the most misunderstood and under-diagnosed and hence poorly managed diseases. The film will help reduce the confusion and increase awareness about the disease and its diagnosis. The film also attempts to debunk myths, misconceptions and superstitions associated with the disease and tries to de-stigmatise the use of inhalers and similar treatments. Such films are necessary to clarify misunderstandings associated with chronic respiratory diseases.