Experts raise alarm over rising lung disease burden
Health experts in Uganda have launched the Lung Health Alliance to address the rising burden of chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. The initiative aims to improve prevention and care for patients affected by environmental pollution and post-tuberculosis complications.
Why it matters
The rising prevalence of lung disease poses a significant public health challenge in Uganda, impacting both quality of life and economic productivity.
Experts have raised concern over the growing burden of lung diseases in Uganda, warning that chronic respiratory conditions are affecting thousands of people.
The concerns were raised during the launch of the Lung Health Alliance, which will advocate for better prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care for people living with lung diseases.
Dr Ivan Kimuli, a respiratory physician at the Makerere University Lung Institute and chairperson of the Alliance, said Uganda is witnessing a steady rise in chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung diseases, occupational lung diseases, lung cancer and post-tuberculosis (post-TB) lung disease.
"We are seeing many patients with chronic respiratory illnesses. We also receive patients suffering from lung cancer and complications after recovering from tuberculosis, commonly referred to as post-TB lung disease," Kimuli said.
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