World COPD Day: Experts Warn Children Are Also at Risk as Pollution and Early Infections Rise

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, commonly known as COPD, is often believed to be a serious lung condition that affects only adults. However, doctors and researchers are now warning that children are also developing early signs of this disease. With worsening air pollution, higher exposure to smoke, and repeated respiratory infections in early life, young lungs are facing greater stress than before. On World COPD Day, health experts are urging parents to stay aware and recognize signs that may show lung damage in children.

According to the World Health Organization, more than 392 million people around the world live with COPD. The illness causes swelling and gradual narrowing of the airways, making it harder for the person to breathe. While adults remain the largest group affected, pediatricians are noticing that more children are developing symptoms similar to those seen in early COPD. Experts link this rise to environmental changes, especially in large cities where air quality has become a major concern. When children grow up breathing polluted air every day, their lungs may not develop to full capacity, increasing the chances of breathing problems later in life.

Doctors explain that COPD does not appear overnight. It develops slowly, and damage begins early when a child is repeatedly exposed to harmful substances. These include secondhand smoke from cigarettes, fumes from burning wood and coal, indoor pollution, mosquito coils, incense sticks, and traffic pollution. Many families still use traditional fuels for cooking, which release smoke that fills the house. Children who inhale this smoke daily may develop irritation and swelling in their airways. Over time, this can cause permanent damage.

Another major cause of concern is frequent chest infections. When young children repeatedly fall sick with colds, coughs, or lung infections, their breathing system may weaken. Dr. Akshay Mehta, a senior pediatric specialist, explains that repeated infections or constant exposure to bad air can limit lung growth. If a child’s lungs do not fully develop in the early years, the child may face a higher risk of serious breathing problems as an adult. Some children who suffer from asthma and do not receive proper treatment may also develop long-term lung damage.

There are also rarer causes, such as a genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, which can trigger COPD even in young people. However, most cases in children are linked to the environment and everyday exposure to polluted air. Occupational exposure in older children, such as working in areas with dust or chemical fumes, may add further risk.

Parents are encouraged to watch for early signs so treatment can begin at the right time. Common symptoms include a cough that produces mucus, frequent breathing difficulty, wheezing sounds from the chest, tiredness even after light activity, and loss of interest in playing. Children may also suffer frequent chest infections without clear reasons. These symptoms are often mistaken for simple asthma or seasonal illness, but when they continue over time, medical evaluation becomes important. Doctors usually conduct breathing tests, such as spirometry, to evaluate lung function. Unfortunately, this test is still not easily available in many regions.

The good news is that COPD risk can be reduced if parents take early action. The first step is to remove cigarette smoke from the child’s surroundings. Even passive breathing of smoke inside the house is harmful. Families are advised to keep the home smoke-free and encourage smokers to quit or smoke outside. Indoor air quality should also be improved. Windows should be opened while cooking, and traditional fuels like wood and coal should be replaced with cleaner alternatives whenever possible. Families should reduce the use of incense sticks, mosquito coils, strong sprays, and air fresheners, as these release fumes that can irritate delicate lungs.

When outdoor pollution levels are high, children should avoid playing outside. Indoor games should be encouraged on bad air days. Wearing a mask and following basic hygiene, such as regular handwashing, can reduce infections that weaken lung health. Doctors also advise that prescribed medicines, such as inhalers, should be taken exactly as recommended. Skipping treatment or depending on home remedies without medical review may worsen long-term damage.

Children with repeated breathing problems need regular checkups. Lung growth and function should be monitored, and treatment adjusted based on progress. With early care, awareness, clean air at home, and medical support, many children can avoid long-term complications. World COPD Day serves as a reminder that protecting young lungs today is the best way to prevent serious diseases tomorrow.