Souvik Saha
On the occasion of World COPD Day, Manipal Hospitals Kolkata introduced two new services aimed at addressing the rising burden of chronic respiratory diseases in the city. The launch included a Smoking Cessation Clinic and a Pulmonary Rehabilitation & Vaccination Clinic, both designed to support individuals dealing with lung-related health challenges.
The event brought together voices from different fields, with former India cricketer Jhulan Goswami attending as Chief Guest. Filmmaker Goutam Ghose, footballer Goutam Sarkar, MP Saayoni Ghosh, MLA Sujit Bose, and several public officials and athletes were also present, signalling wider social attention toward lung health.
Focus on Behavioural and Preventive Care
The Smoking Cessation Clinic will provide structured counselling and follow-up support for people trying to quit tobacco. According to speakers at the programme, tobacco use continues to be one of the leading contributors to COPD and several other preventable respiratory illnesses.
Alongside this, the Pulmonary Rehabilitation & Vaccination Clinic will offer breathing exercises, rehabilitation plans, and guidance on vaccines that help reduce complications from respiratory infections, particularly among older adults, smokers, and people with chronic lung conditions.
Expert Panel Flags Growing COPD Burden
An interactive session led by pulmonologists from different Manipal Hospitals units focused on symptoms, early detection, and lifestyle factors linked to COPD. Doctors emphasised that many patients seek help only after their symptoms worsen, making awareness and early intervention crucial.
During a panel discussion, Dr. Debraj Jash, Director of Pulmonology, noted that India records a high number of smoking-related deaths annually and that the country has one of the largest populations affected by COPD globally.
He stated that structured quit-smoking programmes, combined with long-term rehabilitation, can slow the progression of the disease and improve daily functioning for patients.
Dr. Suranjan Mukherjee highlighted the role of vaccinations such as influenza and pneumococcal shots in preventing severe respiratory infections that often worsen COPD and asthma. He pointed out that these vaccines are recommended not only for senior citizens but also for younger individuals with risk factors.
Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional COO (East), referred to national data showing COPD’s contribution to mortality rates and stressed the need for accessible preventive care.
A Step Toward Strengthening Local Respiratory Health
The introduction of the two clinics adds to the existing respiratory care infrastructure within the hospital network. Specialists at the event noted that awareness, cessation support, early diagnosis, and preventive vaccination together form a more effective approach to managing chronic lung diseases.
With COPD and pollution-related respiratory issues growing in urban areas, the initiative reflects an increasing emphasis on community-level education and long-
term respiratory support.
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