World Pneumonia Day is observed annually on November 12th to raise awareness about pneumonia, its prevention, and its impact on global health. Established in 2009 by the Global Coalition Against Child Pneumonia, the day includes UNICEF, WHO, and other health organizations.
World Pneumonia Day's purpose is to highlight pneumonia as a leading cause of death in children under five and emphasize the need for more efforts in preventing and treating this health trouble. It serves as a call to action for governments, health professionals, and communities.
Key Facts About Pneumonia
Here are some key facts about pneumonia one must know:
Leading cause of death: Pneumonia is one of the top infectious diseases worldwide and a leading cause of death in young children.
Global burden: Despite being preventable and treatable, pneumonia still accounts for many deaths globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it kills more than 800,000 children under five every year.
Risk factors: It is more common among children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Malnutrition, air pollution, and lack of access to vaccines or healthcare services increase the risk of contracting pneumonia.
Prevention: Pneumonia can often be prevented with vaccination which is the pneumococcal vaccine, improved nutrition, breastfeeding, and access to clean air and proper sanitation methods.
Treatment: Pneumonia can usually be treated with antibiotics when diagnosed early. However, access to healthcare and timely intervention are critical to reducing deaths.
Focus Areas For 2024 To Prevent Pneumonia
To inform the public about pneumonia's symptoms, causes, and preventive measures here are some focus areas:
- Emphasizing the need for global access to vaccines, especially in low- and middle-income countries is essential.
- Promoting better access to healthcare and improving early detection and treatment strategies.
- Addressing environmental factors like air pollution and sanitation to prevent pneumonia, besides improving living conditions
- Working together to reduce the global burden of pneumonia and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
- Maintaining good respiratory health for overall well-being, especially during cold and flu seasons.
Also Read: Respiratory Health: 5 Incredible Herbs To Boost Your Lung Power
Lung protection is crucial because the lungs play a vital role in delivering oxygen to the body and removing carbon dioxide, which is essential for every cell’s survival. Healthy lungs act as a barrier to pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and pollutants. Without proper lung function, oxygen levels drop, leading to fatigue, organ damage, and, in extreme cases, organ failure. By following certain steps, you can improve lung function, reduce the risk of respiratory infections, and maintain healthy breathing throughout the year. Here are some Strategies to protect your lungs:
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep mucus thin and the airways moist, reducing the risk of infections.
Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face to reduce the spread of viruses.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking damages the lungs besides weakening the immune system. Moreover, you should avoid second-hand smoke and environmental pollutants, which can irritate your airways.
Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity strengthens your lungs and boosts overall respiratory function. Even light walking can help.
Use a Humidifier: Dry air can irritate the respiratory system, especially in winter. A humidifier adds moisture to indoor air, reducing dryness and chest congestion.
Get Vaccinated: Vaccinations like the flu shot and pneumonia vaccine help protect against respiratory infections.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile: Preeti Sharma
Preeti Sharma has a master’s in electronic media and mass communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References:
Call to Action on World Pneumonia Day
Rana Hajjeh, Cynthia G Whitney
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3559175/
https://publications.ersnet.org/content/erj/early/2023/10/26/1399300301672-2023
