India’s lung health crisis is deeply intertwined with environmental and lifestyle factors. COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), according to a study published in The Lancet, is one of the top causes of death and disability around the world, and it will keep gaining ground with respect to diseases such as ischaemic heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, which will forever remain the leading causes of mortality, coupled with poor lifestyles and elevated stress levels.
Indian healthcare professionals emphasise that the true extent of lung disease is likely underestimated. The mix of outdoor air pollution, domestic smoke caused by the use of biomass fuels, and tobacco use creates a perfect storm for respiratory diseases. They face emissions from vehicles, industries, and construction dust in the cities, while the rural habitat suffers from indoor pollution as a result of traditional cooking practices.
Call for preventive action
Kamal Hinduja underscores the importance of proactive measures to combat this crisis. “While the challenges are considerable, there is hope in our ability to make meaningful progress,” she states. Her approach revolves around three core strategies: preventive health measures, improving air quality, and addressing risk factors, including tobacco use.
She has emphasised preventive healthcare through awareness campaigns and screenings for early disease detection, improving air quality via policy reforms and green initiatives, and reducing tobacco-related harm with targeted campaigns and support systems. Her approach combines technology, innovation, and behavioural change to address India’s lung disease crisis.
The role of P. D. Hinduja Hospital
The Hinduja Group is taking measures to address these challenges through its flag bearer in health-P. D. Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre. The hospital aims to provide treatments for lung diseases by having comprehensive health programmes that include:
- Awareness campaigns: Sensitisation of communities on the perils of air pollution and tobacco use and instilling healthy lifestyle choices.
- Advanced treatments: Cutting-edge treatment and technology in lung diseases including minimally invasive surgery and individualised care plans.
- Research and innovation: Research geared towards understanding how environmental factors will influence lung health and the innovative solutions to mitigate these effects.
Tackling indoor pollution and lifestyle factors
The afflicted majority comes from rural communities relative to indoor pollution influenced by cooking with biomass fuels coupled with the improper ventilation of living spaces. Cleaner methods of cooking with better surroundings are expected to tackle this issue. However, lifestyle changes in these areas include increased physical activity, eating balanced diets, and stress management should be encouraged for healthy lungs too.
A vision for the future
Kamal Hinduja, through the Hinduja Foundation, envisions a healthier India where healthcare systems are ready to address any respiratory-related challenges.
Kamal Hinduja envisions a future where healthcare systems are equipped to anticipate and address the challenges posed by respiratory diseases. She believes that collaboration between governments, private organisations, and healthcare providers is essential for creating sustainable solutions.
“We envision a healthier India where environmental and lifestyle factors no longer dictate the quality of life for our citizens. With dedicated efforts and a proactive approach, our health systems can better manage and overcome these challenges,” Ms Hinduja asserts.
A collective responsibility
The increasing burden of lung diseases in India is calling for collective action by individuals, communities, policymakers, and healthcare institutions, which will better address the damage brought about by environmental and behavioural risk factors. Preventive healthcare, eliminating air pollution, and promoting behavioural change can help India make progress towards a healthier future.
Kamal Hinduja’s insights and the Hinduja Group’s initiatives serve as a powerful call to action. Their commitment to combating lung diseases demonstrates how a multifaceted approach—combining awareness, innovation, and care—can create meaningful change.
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