Air Pollution Fuels Surge in COPD Cases in Gujarat; Pulmonologists Call for Early Testing and Preventive Measures

City pulmonologists report a 30% rise in COPD cases since the post-COVID period
COPD is now the 3rd leading cause of death globally (WHO)
According to the SRS (Sample Registration System) Bulletin (2021–2023) by the Ministry of Home Affairs, COPD has emerged as the second most common cause of death in India.
Rising cases among non-smokers and younger adults, linked to worsening air pollution
Ahmedabad, November 28, 2025: City pulmonologists are reporting a sharp increase in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) cases, with nearly a 30% rise seen in the post-COVID years. This trend comes at a time when pollution levels are climbing across Gujarat and as the winter season sets in—making conditions even more hazardous for people with respiratory issues. Globally, COPD has moved from the fourth to the third leading cause of death, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). With November observed as World COPD Awareness Month, pulmonologists say people must prioritise awareness, timely testing, and preventive habits.

Dr Kashmira Jhala, Senior Consultant Pulmonologist and International Sleep Specialist, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, said lung health is often taken less seriously than conditions like diabetes or cholesterol, even though COPD can be managed effectively with timely care. “A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is simple, quick and painless, and it tells us exactly how well the lungs are functioning. Many patients come only when their symptoms have significantly worsened and lung damage has already occurred. Early PFT screening allows us to diagnose COPD much sooner and manage it just as effectively as we manage chronic conditions like diabetes—with regular monitoring and the right medication. This single test can prevent complications such as heart problems and improve long-term quality of life,” she said.

Adding to the challenge is the sharp deterioration of air quality, especially during winter. Cold air traps pollutants closer to the ground, increasing the amount of dust, smoke, particulate matter, and vehicular emissions people inhale. These pollutants irritate the airways, reduce lung capacity, and worsen conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Over time, prolonged exposure leads to chronic inflammation and irreversible lung damage. Pulmonologists say they are now seeing COPD symptoms—persistent cough, breathlessness, chest tightness, and fatigue—in people as young as their 40s and 50s, a trend far less common two decades ago.

Dr Rahul Jalan, Consultant Clinical & Interventional Pulmonologist, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, said simple preventive steps become even more important during winter, when cold air and pollution work together to aggravate symptoms. “Wearing a mask outdoors, avoiding early morning exercise in winter, and limiting outdoor exposure during high-pollution hours can significantly reduce lung strain. An annual flu vaccine is equally important—it helps prevent infections that can rapidly worsen COPD. I strongly recommend this vaccine for everyone above 50 and for those with chronic respiratory or heart conditions. These measures slow down lung deterioration and reduce flare-ups, especially in the winter months,” he said.

Pulmonologists emphasise that lung health cannot be treated as optional, particularly during winter when pollution peaks. Timely diagnosis, regular monitoring, and protective habits remain the most effective tools to prevent long-term damage. As the season turns colder and pollution levels continue to rise, experts urge citizens to prioritise their lungs, saying, “Your lungs have no backup—protect them before the damage becomes irreversible.”