16.3% Women suffer from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Rural Areas: Study

By: WE Staff | Wednesday, 7 May 2025

• Review Study by Experts from KMC, Mangaluru reveals 16.3% Women suffer from COPD
• Women aged 40 and above show Higher Risks, especially in Rural Areas
• Limited healthcare access and Environmental factors exacerbate the condition

A review study conducted by experts from the community medicine and pulmonary medicine departments reveals that 16.3 per cent of women suffer from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), with the highest prevalence in rural areas. The review of studies was conducted in Mysuru, Odisha, and Thiruvallur districts, Tamil Nadu.

Women aged 40 and above showcase higher risks, which are often overlooked, leading to delayed tim ely medical attention. Women using biomass fuels for cooking face increased risks of chronic bronchitis and airflow limitations. Factors contributing to COPD include tobacco use, reduced BMI, limited education, and exposure to second-hand smoke. Limited healthcare access and environmental factors exacerbate the condition.

A study by researchers from KMC, Mangaluru, titled 'COPD in Females: Seeing Through the Smoke' aims to understand COPD risk factors among females. The research highlights that women often face more severe symptoms and higher mortality rates compared to men, despite smoking less. The study also suggests differences in COPD expression between genders, with women showing smaller airway disease and hormonal influences. The research is ongoing in Dakshina Kannada and is focusing on proactive COPD screening.