Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) predominantly affects individuals in their 60s, with smoking identified as the leading cause. Dr. Neil Schachter, a seasoned expert in pulmonary medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, highlights the impact of smoking and other risk factors on the disease. However, he emphasizes that with the right therapies and lifestyle changes, managing COPD effectively is possible.
COPD primarily results from the loss of elasticity in the alveoli, mainly induced by smoking. Dr. Yadegar explains that while COPD develops later in life, asthma often begins in childhood, with both conditions sometimes overlapping due to shared features. Dr. Schachter underscores that smoking tobacco remains the most significant risk factor, though air pollution, work-related pollutants, and infections also contribute.
“There are many other risk factors that contribute to the development of the disease, including air pollution, work-related pollution, infection, and some forms of asthma.” – Dr. Schachter
Effective management of COPD involves a multi-faceted approach. Numerous therapies and strategies have been developed to alter the disease's progression. Dr. Schachter points out that medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, diet, and vaccines play crucial roles in managing COPD and protecting against respiratory infections.
“There are numerous therapies and strategies that improve the course of the disease,” – Dr. Schachter
“including medications, rehabilitation, diet, and vaccines that protect against respiratory infections that accelerate the course of the disease.” – Dr. Schachter
Diet plays a pivotal role in managing COPD. A 2020 meta-analysis of eight observational studies explored dietary impacts on the disease, revealing that healthy eating patterns correlate with a lower prevalence of COPD. Dr. Schachter consistently observes how a nutrient-rich diet not only boosts general health but also mitigates exacerbations of COPD and its comorbidities.
“general health and can protect against exacerbations of COPD itself and its comorbidities.” – Dr. Schachter
“healthy dietary patterns are associated with a lower prevalence of COPD, while unhealthy dietary patterns are not.” – (no attribution)
Exercise is another crucial component of COPD management. Dr. Schachter advises patients to consult their doctors before embarking on or modifying their exercise routines. He acknowledges exercise's potential benefits, even when it may initially seem daunting for those with COPD.
“You might feel like it is not safe or even possible to exercise, but the right amount and type of exercise has many benefits. Be sure to ask your doctor before you start or make changes to your exercise routine.” – Dr. Schachter
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