World Lung Day: Spirometry & TB Tests for Healthy Breathing

What is World Lung Day?

World Lung Day is an annual global health campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of lung health and the urgent need to reduce the burden of respiratory diseases.

When is World Lung Day 2025?

World Lung Day 2025 will be observed on 25 September 2025. The day is marked annually by health organisations, advocacy groups, and communities around the world to promote lung health and advocate for stronger action to combat respiratory diseases.

Theme of World Lung Day 2025

While there is no official World Lung Day 2025 theme, the focus centres on "healthy lungs for life", reflecting a global effort to promote respiratory wellness and reduce the impact of lung diseases.

The campaign also focuses on:

• Raising awareness about preventable lung diseases
• Highlighting the need for access to clean air
• Advocating for tobacco and smoking cessation
• Encouraging investment in lung health research and services
• Promoting equitable access to prevention and care for all communities

Importance of World Lung Day

World Lung Day is crucial because it highlights the global burden of lung diseases, which are major causes of death and disability.

The day also focuses on:

• Driving advocacy for preventive measures such as reducing air pollution and combatting smoking
• Mobilising communities and policymakers to support research and invest in lung health infrastructure
• Fostering education about early detection and management of respiratory illnesses

History of World Lung Day

World Lung Day was initiated by the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) and its partners to address the growing burden of respiratory disease worldwide. It was created as a platform to unite organisations, governments, and communities in advocating for better lung health.

The history of World Lung Day highlights how over the years, it has grown into a major annual event, drawing attention to vital issues like air quality, tobacco control, and access to healthcare services.

Why Lung Health Awareness is More Important Than Ever

Awareness of lung health is increasingly critical due to rising rates of respiratory diseases and environmental challenges. Factors such as increased air pollution, ongoing threats from infectious diseases like COVID-19, and persistent smoking rates mean that millions remain at risk for preventable lung conditions.

Global Burden of Lung Diseases

• Lung diseases, including COPD, asthma, tuberculosis, and lung cancer, are among the leading causes of death globally.
• Over 34 million Americans live with asthma or COPD alone.
• Respiratory diseases account for millions of deaths each year, with lung cancer being the top cancer killer worldwide.
• In India, nearly 60,000 people die of lung cancer every year.
• India carries a very high burden of lung disease-related deaths, contributing to roughly 11% of global respiratory disease mortality.

Impact on Quality of Life

• Chronic lung diseases can cause long-term breathlessness, fatigue, and disability.
• They often restrict daily activities, work, and social participation.
• Respiratory illnesses can cause financial hardship due to medical costs and lost productivity.
• Mental health is also impacted, with higher rates of anxiety and depression in those suffering from chronic lung diseases.

Common Lung Health Issues Highlighted This Year

This year, World Lung Day spotlights prevalent lung health challenges, emphasising prevention, early detection, and management. Notably, tuberculosis (TB), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and post-COVID lung complications are in focus due to their significant global impact.

Tuberculosis (TB)

• TB is a leading cause of infectious disease deaths worldwide.
• It spreads from person to person via airborne droplets.
• Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent severe illness and transmission.
• Drug-resistant TB continues to pose a growing challenge for global health.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

• COPD is a progressive lung disease causing breathlessness and airflow limitation.
• Primarily caused by tobacco smoke exposure and air pollution.
• Early symptoms may include chronic cough and sputum production.
• Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can slow disease progression.

Post-COVID Lung Complications

• Some patients experience ongoing respiratory symptoms after COVID-19 infection.
• Complications may include lung scarring, reduced lung function, and persistent breathlessness.
• Rehabilitation, breathing exercises, and ongoing medical care are important for recovery.

Spirometry: A Key Test for Lung Health

Spirometry is a simple, non-invasive lung function test that measures how much air you can inhale and exhale, and how quickly you can exhale. It is considered the gold standard for assessing lung function, diagnosing respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD, and monitoring lung health over time.

What is Spirometry and How Does it Work?

• Measures the volume and flow of air during inhalation and exhalation
• Involves breathing forcefully into a spirometer
• Assesses lung function for diseases like asthma, COPD, and other respiratory conditions
• Results reported as FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second) and FVC (forced vital capacity)

Who Should Get a Spirometry Test?

• Anyone with symptoms of chronic cough, wheezing, or breathlessness
• Smokers and individuals with a history of tobacco use
• People with a family history of lung diseases
• Those with known risk factors such as occupational exposure to dust or chemicals

Benefits of Early Lung Function Testing

• Enables early detection and management of lung diseases
• Helps monitor progression and response to treatment
• Reduces the risk of severe complications by prompting timely intervention

TB Tests: Detecting Tuberculosis Early

TB tests are essential for identifying tuberculosis infection, especially in high-risk populations and communities where TB is prevalent. Early detection through screening is a cornerstone of TB control because it allows for prompt treatment, reducing the risk of severe illness and limiting transmission.

Why TB Testing is Critical in 2025

• Rising rates of drug-resistant TB make early detection vital for effective treatment
• Delayed diagnosis increases risk of transmission and poor outcomes
• Vulnerable populations, including people with compromised immune systems, are at higher risk

Common Tests for TB Detection

• Tuberculin skin test (TST)
• Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) – blood tests
• Sputum smear microscopy and culture for suspected active TB
• Chest X-rays to assess lung involvement

When to Get Tested for TB

• If you have persistent cough, fever, and unexplained weight loss
• After contact with someone with active TB
• If you belong to a high-risk group (immunocompromised, healthcare workers, residents of congregate settings)
• After travel to or residence in countries with high TB prevalence

How to Participate in World Lung Day 2025

World Lung Day 2025 offers many opportunities for individuals and communities to promote lung health. Community involvement and advocacy help drive policy changes and improve access to lung health resources.

Get Your Lungs Tested

• Schedule a spirometry or TB test if at risk
• Encourage friends and family members, especially high-risk groups, to get screened

Attend Local Awareness Events

• Join educational workshops or seminars organised by health organisations
• Participate in lung health fairs offering free screenings
• Volunteer for local advocacy campaigns

Spread the Word on Social Media

• Share lung health facts and prevention tips
• Use official World Lung Day theme hashtags to amplify the message
• Post personal stories or testimonials to encourage community engagement

Everyday Tips for Healthy Breathing

Maintaining healthy breathing involves daily lifestyle choices. Avoiding tobacco exposure, practising breathing exercises, and protecting yourself from air pollution are crucial steps. These habits help prevent disease, protect lung function, and improve overall well-being.

Avoid Smoking and Second-hand Smoke

• Quitting smoking is the single most important step for lung health
• Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke in homes, workplaces, and public spaces

Practice Breathing Exercises

• Deep breathing exercises can improve lung capacity and reduce stress
• Pursed lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing are helpful techniques

Protect Yourself from Air Pollution

• Check daily air quality reports and limit outdoor activities on high pollution days
• Use air purifiers indoors and wear masks when necessary outdoors

Conclusion

World Lung Day 2025 reminds us that healthy lungs are essential for a healthy life. At Metropolis Healthcare, we understand the importance of early detection and are committed to providing reliable, accessible diagnostic services to help you prioritise your lung health.

FAQs on World Lung Day 2025 and Lung Health

When is World Lung Day celebrated in 2025?

World Lung Day is celebrated annually on September 25. In 2025, it falls on Thursday, September 25.

What is the theme of World Lung Day 2025?

There is no official theme for World Lung Day 2025 but the focus centres on "healthy lungs for life".

What is spirometry and why is it important?

Spirometry is a simple breathing test that measures lung function. It is important for diagnosing respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD, monitoring disease progression, and assessing response to treatment.

Which tests are done to detect tuberculosis?

Tuberculin skin test, interferon-gamma release assays (blood tests), sputum smear microscopy and culture, and chest X-rays.

How can I keep my lungs healthy?

Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, practice breathing exercises, protect yourself from air pollution, and maintain a healthy weight.