Breath of Life ! Protecting and Preserving Your Lungs

The lungs are at the core of our respiratory system, working tirelessly to supply oxygen to every cell in the body and remove carbon dioxide. On average, we breathe around 22,000 times a day, exchanging nearly 9,000 cubic feet of air. Oxygen fuels the mitochondria inside each of our 100 trillion cells, generating energy for life. Without healthy lungs, this vital process is disrupted, leading to disease and reduced quality of life.

According to the World Health Organization, chronic respiratory illnesses are among the leading causes of death worldwide. In 2025, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) ranked third, responsible for about three million deaths. Lower respiratory infections remained the fifth leading cause, and lung cancers rose to the sixth position with nearly two million deaths. Together, these conditions place lung health at the forefront of global medical concern.

Lung diseases come in different forms. Airway diseases such as asthma, COPD, bronchitis, and emphysema affect airflow. Circulatory problems like pulmonary hypertension and oedema interfere with blood flow to the lungs, while tissue diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis cause scarring. Infections including COVID-19, tuberculosis, and pneumonia are also widespread, and other conditions like pleural effusion or interstitial lung disease add to the burden. Occupational hazards, exposure to pollution, and smoking further damage lung function, sometimes leading to failure.

Common symptoms of lung disease include cough, phlegm, breathlessness, chest pain, wheezing, and occasionally coughing up blood. These signs should not be ignored and require medical evaluation. Diagnosis usually begins with chest X-rays, lung function and blood tests, but may also involve CT scans, bronchoscopy, or biopsies when necessary.

Treatment depends on the cause. While infections may respond to antibiotics, chronic airway problems are managed with inhalers, bronchodilators, mucolytics, and steroids. Oxygen therapy helps those with poor lung function, and in severe cases, surgery may be required for cancer, airway narrowing, or obstruction. For progressive lung failure, lung transplantation is a life-saving option.

Maintaining healthy lungs is possible with simple lifestyle steps. Wearing masks in polluted environments or hazardous workplaces, avoiding smoking, practicing breathing exercises like pranayama and yoga, and staying away from burning plastics can all improve lung health.

Key Message

The lungs are our life force. Protecting them through healthy habits, timely medical care, and awareness can prevent chronic illness and ensure a healthier future.

Featuring insights from Dr. Ilango R.P., Pulmonologist, Apollo Hospitals, Greams Lane, Chennai

? For appointments, call Apollo Hospitals Chennai at 044 4040 1066