Dr. Ved Prakash, KGMU
Lucknow: Pneumonia remains a critical health issue, particularly for children under five and the elderly. Timely prevention, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment are essential in saving lives. According to Professor (Dr.) Ved Prakash, pneumonia prevention strategies, supported by global and national health initiatives, are crucial to curb its impact.
Key Statistics and Facts about Pneumonia
- In 2013, the Indian government introduced the Indian Action Plan for Prevention of Pneumonia and Diarrhea (IAPPD) to reduce pneumonia and diarrhea among children.
- WHO and UNICEF launched the Global Action Plan for Pneumonia and Diarrhea (GAPP) in 2013 to globally address pneumonia prevention and control.
- Since 2017, the Indian government included the pneumococcal vaccine (PSV) in its universal immunization program to curb childhood pneumonia.
- Under Sustainable Development Goal 3, India aims to eradicate preventable child deaths due to pneumonia by 2030.
- Globally, 1 in 6 deaths in individuals over 70 is attributed to pneumonia.
- In the U.S., pneumonia annually claims around 50,000 lives among those over 65, with over 1.5 million hospitalizations due to pneumonia and influenza, costing an estimated $10.5 billion (₹87,150 crore) in healthcare expenses.
- In India, treating pneumonia in children under five incurs an annual healthcare cost of approximately ₹3,000 crore.
- WHO warns that, due to antimicrobial resistance, pneumonia could be a leading cause of death by 2050, contributing to 10 million global deaths annually.
- Globally, pneumonia-related costs, including healthcare, productivity loss, and long-term impacts, range between $17 billion (₹1,41,100 crore) to $30 billion (₹2,49,000 crore) annually.
- Pneumonia accounts for around 14% of deaths in children under five globally, and in 2019, an estimated 610,000 children under five died from it — about 2,000 children per day.
- Every year in India, approximately 2.6 million severe pneumonia cases occur in children under five, of which 800,000 require hospitalization.
- Close to 4.3 million children under five in India are exposed to harmful levels of indoor air pollution from cooking with solid fuels, a significant risk factor for pneumonia. This factor alone contributes to about 40% of pneumonia cases in children under five.
- Globally, air pollution is responsible for approximately 1.6 million pneumonia-related deaths annually.
World Pneumonia Day 2024 Theme
The theme for World Pneumonia Day 2024 is “Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia in its Tracks,” emphasizing the importance of early identification and appropriate treatment in preventing pneumonia.
History of World Pneumonia Day
World Pneumonia Day was first established in 2009 by the Global Alliance Against Child Pneumonia, an alliance of international, government, non-governmental, and community-based organizations focused on raising awareness about pneumonia’s impact on child mortality. Over the years, its scope has expanded to include all age groups, recognizing the widespread impact of pneumonia on adults and the elderly. This day serves as a reminder of the global commitment to reduce pneumonia deaths, improve healthcare access, and encourage vaccine, treatment, and diagnostic innovations.
Risk Factors for Pneumonia
- Pathogens: Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common bacterial cause.
- Viruses: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), influenza, and coronaviruses are typical viral culprits.
- Fungi: Fungal infections like Pneumocystis jiroveci affect individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Age: Children under five and adults over 65 are particularly vulnerable.
- Malnutrition: Weakens immunity, increasing susceptibility to infections.
- Chronic Illnesses: Conditions such as asthma, heart disease, and diabetes elevate pneumonia risk.
- Environmental Factors: Air pollution, smoking, and exposure to secondhand smoke contribute significantly.
- Compromised Immunity: Diseases that lower immunity, such as HIV/AIDS, or long-term steroid use can increase pneumonia risk.
Symptoms of Pneumonia
- Persistent cough
- Fever and chills
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Fatigue and weakness
- Confusion
- Loss of appetite
- Low blood pressure and oxygen levels
Prevention and Treatment of Pneumonia
- Exclusive Breastfeeding: Feed infants exclusively with breast milk for the first six months.
- Vaccination: Pneumococcal and Haemophilus influenzae vaccines protect against common pathogens causing pneumonia.
- In addition to childhood immunization, vaccines like the pneumococcal and influenza vaccines are crucial for elderly and chronically ill individuals.
- Environmental Measures: Reducing air pollution, avoiding secondhand smoke, and improving ventilation are preventive steps.
- Nutritional Support: Proper nutrition enhances immunity and aids in fighting infections.
Role of Vaccination in Pneumonia Prevention
Vaccines play a vital role in pneumonia prevention. The Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV), Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine, and the measles vaccine are effective strategies to reduce pneumonia cases in children. The influenza vaccine helps prevent flu-related pneumonia, especially in older adults and those with chronic illnesses. Additionally, increasing access to vaccines in low-income regions remains a challenge that organizations like Gavi (the Vaccine Alliance) are addressing, aiming to make vaccines accessible to the world’s poorest countries.
King George’s Medical University (KGMU) and Pneumonia Awareness
KGMU’s Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Department has been at the forefront of pneumonia management, providing comprehensive diagnostic, therapeutic, and critical care services, especially to vulnerable populations across Uttar Pradesh and beyond. With state-of-the-art facilities and a multidisciplinary approach, the department ensures rapid diagnosis and optimal treatment for pneumonia cases. Engaging actively in awareness campaigns like World Pneumonia Day, the department educates the public about the importance of prevention and timely care.
As we observe World Pneumonia Day, it is essential to recognize that pneumonia is more than a medical issue; it is also a social and economic concern. Ensuring no one is left behind in the fight against pneumonia requires broad strategies, including improved healthcare access, widespread vaccination, environmental improvements, and continued global collaboration.
