📩 15/11/2023 13:05
Istanbul Okan University Hospital, Department of Chest Diseases Deputy Chief Physician Assoc. Dr. Fidan Yıldız raises public awareness on November 15, World COPD Day.
Istanbul Okan University Hospital, Department of Chest Diseases Deputy Chief Physician Assoc. Dr. Fidan Yıldız drew attention to COPD disease on the occasion of November 15, World COPD Day. In the statement, it was emphasized that 10 out of every 2 people worldwide and in Turkey have COPD and that this disease is not well known.
Deputy Chief Physician of the Department of Chest Diseases, Assoc. Dr. Fidan Yıldız said the following about COPD:
“After exposure to cigarette smoke, harmful particles or other harmful gases, a non-microbial inflammation occurs in the person's respiratory tract and the airways narrow as a result of the inflammation. COPD is a preventable and treatable disease.”
“Pre-smoking is responsible for 70-80 percent of patients with COPD.” said Assoc. Dr. Fidan Yıldız pointed out that exposure to cigarette smoke even if a person does not smoke poses a risk for the development of COPD.
Assoc. Prof. emphasized that the airways and lungs of smokers become defensive against the harmful substances contained in cigarettes. Dr. Fidan Yıldız said, “Protective mechanisms come into play to protect the lungs. If you smoke constantly, these protective mechanisms cannot function adequately and damage occurs in the lung tissues. "The amount of secretions in the lungs increases, the airways narrow, and changes occur in the vessels." said.
Yıldız pointed out that indoor air pollution increases the risk of COPD. He stated that smoke and particles, especially those produced while cooking, can cause COPD even in non-smokers.
Assoc. Dr. Fidan Yıldız explained that individuals working in certain occupational groups may be exposed to dust and harmful gases for a long time, which may lead to the development of COPD. Yıldız stated that those working in professions such as mining, metal work, transportation sector, wood/paper production, cement, grain and textile work are at risk of COPD due to their exposure to these harmful factors.
Assoc. Dr. Yıldız listed the symptoms of COPD as follows:
“Shortness of breath, chronic cough, sputum production, wheezing or feeling of tightness in the chest, which starts insidiously and gradually increases in severity.”
Explaining the tests performed for the diagnosis and treatment of COPD if the symptoms are noticed, Yıldız said:
“Diagnostic tests are Blow tests (Spirometry), auxiliary tests are lung x-ray, blood oxygen level measurement, blood and exercise tests. COPD treatment does not consist of medication alone. Ensuring patient and physician cooperation is an important part of the treatment.”