Understanding Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. It encompasses various conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, often caused by long-term exposure to harmful substances like cigarette smoke, air pollution, or occupational dust and chemicals. COPD affects millions worldwide, with a significant impact on individuals' quality of life and healthcare systems.

In fact, COPD is the 10th leading cause of death in Singapore. Globally, COPD is predicted to be the 3rd leading cause of mortality by 2030.

Who gets COPD?

Typically, COPD affects people above the age of 30. It affects more than 600 million people worldwide where 5-6% of patients are Singaporean.

Common Causes of COPD

Smoking Tobacco: Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD. The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke cause inflammation and damage to the airways and air sacs in the lungs, leading to progressive airflow limitation and respiratory symptoms.
Indoor Air Pollution: Exposure to indoor pollutants, such as biomass fuels used for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated homes, can significantly increase the risk of developing COPD. Prolonged inhalation of smoke and other harmful particles can damage the lungs and contribute to the development of respiratory diseases.
Outdoor Air Pollution: Inhalation of pollutants from vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and other sources of outdoor air pollution can also contribute to COPD. Particulate matter, ozone, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide are among the pollutants that can irritate the airways and worsen respiratory symptoms, particularly in individuals with pre-existing lung conditions.
Occupational Dust and Chemicals: Workers exposed to dust, chemicals, fumes, and other hazardous substances in certain industries (such as mining, construction, agriculture, and manufacturing) are at increased risk of developing COPD. Prolonged exposure to these occupational hazards can cause lung inflammation, scarring, and respiratory damage over time.

How is COPD Diagnosed?

Diagnosing COPD involves a comprehensive evaluation of medical history, symptoms, physical examination, and lung function tests, such as spirometry. Imaging studies like chest X-rays or CT scans may also be performed to assess lung structure and rule out other conditions. Early diagnosis is crucial for implementing appropriate management strategies and slowing disease progression.

How do I treat COPD?

Treatment of COPD aims to alleviate symptoms, improve exercise tolerance, prevent exacerbations, and enhance overall quality of life. It typically involves a multi-faceted approach, including:

Lifestyle Modification: Smoking cessation is paramount in managing COPD, as continued smoking accelerates disease progression. Avoiding exposure to environmental pollutants and occupational hazards is also essential.
Vaccination: Annual influenza vaccination and pneumococcal vaccination help reduce the risk of respiratory infections, which can trigger COPD exacerbations.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Pulmonary rehabilitation programs incorporate exercise training, education, and behavioral interventions to enhance physical and emotional well-being in COPD patients.
Medications: Pharmacological therapies for COPD include inhaled medications (such as relievers and controllers), oral medications (such as theophylline), and antibiotics or oral steroids for exacerbations.
Other Treatments: In advanced COPD cases, long-term oxygen therapy, non-invasive ventilation, surgical interventions (such as lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplantation), or bronchoscopic procedures may be considered to improve symptoms and prolong survival.
Supportive Care: Comprehensive COPD management involves addressing patients' psycho-social needs, facilitating advance care planning, providing palliative care for symptom management, and coordinating community nursing and medico-social support services

COPD is a complex and debilitating lung condition that requires a holistic approach to management. By addressing risk factors, implementing appropriate therapies, and providing comprehensive support, healthcare providers can effectively manage COPD and improve patients' outcomes and quality of life. Early diagnosis, patient education, and adherence to treatment plans are essential for optimizing COPD management and reducing disease burden.

For more information, download a leaflet below:

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (English)pdf

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (Chinese)pdf