Take a deep breath and show your lungs some love this National Lung Month.
Do you enjoy breathing in the fresh air in the countryside? Do you love sniffing the scent of your favorite perfume? Does it make you feel satisfied after jogging or working out? Breathing in and out seems to be the last thing we notice about ourselves every day, but it’s actually among the most important things that keep us alive.
Every August, the Philippines observes National Lung Month. This is a great reminder for all of us to give a little more love and attention to one of the most hardworking organs in our bodies, our lungs. They work 24/7 to supply our body with oxygen. Now, let's take a closer look at why keeping our lungs in top shape is important for our overall well-being.
Oh My Lung: Why is Lung Health a Major Concern in the Philippines?
It's a fact that many Filipinos are affected by lung-related health issues. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), pneumonia was the fourth-leading cause of death in the country from January to December 2024. Additionally, lung cancer remains a significant concern and is one of the most common cancers among Filipinos.
These numbers aren't meant to be frightening. Instead, they serve as a gentle nudge, reminding us that by taking proactive steps, we can significantly lower our risks and protect ourselves and our loved ones from these diseases.
What are the Common Lung Problems in the Philippines?
Here are some of the common lung conditions that many Filipinos face:
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes the airways to become inflamed and narrow, making it difficult to breathe. It affects people of all ages but tends to be underdiagnosed and undertreated, specifically in low- and middle-income countries. Its symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, tightening in the chest, and shortness of breath.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-term lung disease that causes airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. Sometimes, it is referred to as emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Its symptoms include coughing (sometimes with phlegm), wheezing, feeling tired, and difficulty breathing. The most common causes of COPD are smoking and air pollution.
Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease caused by the bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which often affects the lungs. It can also affect other parts of the body like the bones, brain, kidneys, and liver. TB can spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing, and spitting. It is curable and preventable, but not maintaining the treatment regularly may worsen the condition.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths for both men and women. Smoking is a big risk factor for this lung-related health problem.
Let’s Take a Breather: Simple and Easy Ways to Keep Your Lungs Healthy
The good news is that taking care of your lungs doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some simple yet effective habits you can start today:
Breathe in Clean Air:
Try to avoid exposure to both indoor and outdoor air pollution. This can mean staying away from smoke produced by vehicles, cigarette smoke, and other types of polluted air when you can and ensuring good ventilation at home.
Say No to Smoking:
Cigarette smoking has a bad effect on the lungs, and the same is true for e-cigarettes (also called vapes). Avoiding secondhand smoke is just as important.
Eat a Balanced Diet and Stay Hydrated:
A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help your body fight off infections. Drinking enough water helps to keep the mucus lining in your airways thin, which makes it easier for your lungs to do their job.
Get Moving:
Regular physical activity makes your lungs stronger. When you're active, your heart and lungs work harder to supply the extra oxygen your muscles need.
Regular Check-ups are Key:
Don't wait until you feel sick to see a doctor. Regular check-ups can help detect any potential problems early. It's also important to stay updated with your vaccinations to protect yourself from respiratory infections.
Get Vaccinated:
Protect yourself from respiratory infections by getting vaccinated against the flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19.
Let’s Start Today: Make Lung Health a Priority
Our lungs do so much for us. By making these small, mindful changes in our daily lives, we can help our lungs stay healthy and strong. Let’s make a promise to ourselves and our families to take our lung health seriously, not just this National Lung Month, but every single day.
Let’s keep our lungs healthy together, Kapitbahay! - (MyPharma)
References:
https://psa.gov.ph/content/2024-causes-death-philippines-provisional-31-may-2025
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-(copd)
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/pneumonia
https://ntp.doh.gov.ph/about-tb/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/lung-cancer
https://www.lung.ca/lung-health/vaping-what-you-need-know
https://www.webmd.com/lung/ss/slideshow-ways-to-keep-lungs-healthy
https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/immunizations.html