As the world observes World COPD Day, Dr Kunal Kumar, a leading pulmonologist from Uttarakhand, underscores the critical connection between tobacco use, whether smoking or chewing, and the growing burden of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
COPD is a progressive lung disease marked by breathlessness, chronic cough, and mucus production, where these symptoms may worsen with tobacco exposure. According to the World Health Organisation, tobacco smoking accounts for over 70% of COPD cases in developed nations, while in developing countries like India, where household air pollution and occupational exposures also contribute, smoking remains the predominant cause. Research further establishes that the number of ‘pack-years’ of smoking is directly
correlated with COPD severity. Inhaling tobacco smoke causes persistent airway inflammation, damages lung tissue, and narrows small airways, leading to irreversible lung function decline even after quitting.
In major densely populated cities, especially metros, where air pollution and overcrowding compound respiratory risks, Dr Kumar warns that COPD may often develop silently. People dismiss persistent coughs or breathlessness as minor issues or signs of ageing. By the time COPD is diagnosed, significant lung damage has already occurred.
Highlighting this year’s theme, ‘Short of Breath, Think COPD’ for World COPD Day, Dr Kumar emphasises that, beyond awareness, India needs stronger tobacco cessation interventions grounded in modern treatment approaches. While public messaging often focuses on ‘just quit’ campaigns, scientific evidence shows that nicotine dependence is a physiological addiction and that structured support significantly improves success rates. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) has emerged as a cornerstone in this approach. These therapies provide controlled doses of nicotine without the toxic by-products of smoking, helping users overcome withdrawal symptoms and gradually reduce cravings. Available as patches, gums, and lozenges, NRT has been proven to double long-term quit rates when combined with counselling and behavioural therapy.
NRT is strongly recommended for tobacco users who exhibit early signs of respiratory distress. Dr. Kunal Kumar, Pulmonologist, Swami Bhoomanand Hospital, Uttarakhand, says, “For people struggling with nicotine dependence, combining NRT with professional counselling offers a practical, evidence-based pathway to quitting. When used under medical supervision, NRT not only curbs cravings but also lowers the chances of relapse and significantly protects lung health over time. The Reference Manual for Tobacco Cessation identifies NRT as a first-line pharmacological aid in India. Research also indicates that ‘dual-form’ NRT using a combination of a patch with a faster-acting product like gum or lozenge can further enhance quit success rates compared to single-form therapies.”
On this occasion, experts like Dr Kumar remind us that the fight against COPD begins with addressing tobacco dependence through compassion, science, and modern therapies such as NRT.
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