Overview
World Lung Day (WLD) is observed annually on September 25. It is a day for lung health advocacy and action, an opportunity for us all to unite and promote better lung health globally. It was initiated by the Forum of the International Respiratory Society (FIRS) for lung health advocacy and action. The WLD is focused on improving and promoting better lung health globally. (Public Health Update)
Respiratory diseases impose an immense worldwide health burden. Globally, 4 million people die prematurely from chronic respiratory diseases, which include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, acute lower respiratory tract infections, tuberculosis, and lung cancer.
Key facts
Respiratory diseases continue to place a huge burden on global health (data: WHO & FIRS):
- COPD – Affects 200 million people; causes 3.2 million deaths each year, the third-leading cause of death worldwide.
- Asthma – One of the most common NCDs, affecting 262 million people globally.
- Lung Cancer – In 2020, there were 2.2 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths. Responsible for 1 in 4 cancer deaths worldwide.
- Pneumonia (Lower Respiratory Infections) – Causes 2.4 million deaths annually, mainly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). COVID-19 has further worsened pneumonia-related mortality.
- Children Under 5 – Pneumonia remains the leading single cause of death outside the neonatal period.
- Tuberculosis (TB) – In 2023, 1.25 million people died from TB, including 161,000 with HIV. TB has likely returned as the world’s leading infectious killer, overtaking COVID-19. It is also the leading cause of death among people with HIV and a major driver of antimicrobial resistance-related deaths.
Key messages
- Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) affect the lungs and airways.
- Common CRDs include COPD, asthma, occupational lung diseases, and pulmonary hypertension.
- Major risk factors: tobacco smoke, air pollution, workplace chemicals/dust, and frequent childhood respiratory infections.
- CRDs are not curable, but treatments can ease symptoms, open airways, and improve daily life.
Protect Your Lungs Every Day
- Breathe Clean Air – Avoid polluted areas & support clean-air policies.
- Be Smoke-Free – Quit smoking & avoid second-hand smoke.
- Stay Active – Regular exercise boosts lung function.
- Vaccinate – Protect against flu, pneumonia & COVID-19.
- Act on Climate – Support actions reducing greenhouse gases.
- Eat Well – A balanced diet supports respiratory health.
