World COPD Day, 20 November

World COPD Day: Know Your Lung Function

Lung function is not only a predictor of lung health, but overall health. 

In support of World COPD Day on November 20, the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS), of which the APSR is a founding member, is highlighting the importance of measuring lung function – also known as spirometry – with the theme ‘Know Your Lung Function’.  

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable condition marked by breathlessness, chronic sputum production and cough, claiming three million lives globally each year —particularly in low-resource countries — and is expected to increase due to aging populations and ongoing exposure to risks like tobacco smoke.

Although spirometry is an essential tool for diagnosing COPD, it is also a marker of health throughout life. Our lungs grow from the womb all the way through young adulthood. Throughout this period we are vulnerable to stressors like 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.  Small reductions in lung function are linked to higher mortality rates, both respiratory and non-respiratory. Early detection through spirometry can lead to prompt interventions and improved outcomes.

Initiatives to reduce the burden of COPD and to promote lung health are taking place worldwide, including smoking-cessation programs, efforts to combat indoor and outdoor air pollution, as well as examining childhood disadvantage factors.  

Although there is currently no cure for COPD, steps to prevent it and improve quality of life can be taken by a variety of individuals in many different settings. Employers can strive for safe breathing environments, citizens can act as stewards of air cleanliness, and both patients and families can help advocate for more research and better access to care, including essential medications, routine spirometry screenings, and other treatments like telehealth access for patients in remote settings.  In addition, providers and policy makers can work together to improve access to spirometry and advocate for its use as a general health marker in all stages of life.