Despite medical advances, lung disease remains a major public health problem worldwide. According to a WHO report, chronic respiratory disease is the sixth leading cause of death worldwide. Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment can have a positive impact on prognosis. Dr Nolwenn Davy, pulmonologist, provides an update.
What are the most common respiratory ailments in Mauritius?
Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema are the most common diseases. Asthma is characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways, which constrict on exposure to allergens, infections or emotions, causing coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. COPD is characterized by a chronic cough, sputum production and progressive breathlessness. Emphysema, on the other hand, corresponds to progressive destruction of the pulmonary alveoli, leading to increasing breathlessness, particularly on exertion. Other common conditions include lung cancer, interstitial pathologies such as pulmonary fibrosis, and respiratory infections and allergies.
Have scientific advances made it possible to improve their management?
Yes, significant progress has definitively transformed treatment. For lung cancer, immunotherapy, which is often better tolerated than chemotherapy, uses antibodies to help the immune system fight cancer cells. Monoclonal antibody-based biotherapies now treat severe forms of asthma and COPD. New inhaled treatments also enable better disease control when taken regularly. Finally, new molecules are currently being studied for pulmonary fibrosis.
What are the risk factors?
While there is a genetic predisposition to certain pathologies, many factors have a considerable influence on respiratory health and lung disease. Smoking, for example, remains the leading risk factor for COPD, lung cancer and worsening asthma. Indoor pollution – such as smoke, dust mites, mould or household products – and climate change – extreme heat, drought, fires or floods – aggravate respiratory diseases. The challenge facing pulmonology today is to improve prevention, promote early diagnosis and develop new therapies in the face of these growing challenges.
