HERMISTON, Ore.-World Lung Day is a global awareness campaign dedicated to promoting lung health and reducing the burden of respiratory diseases.
Held annually on September 25, World Lung Day highlights prevention, the value of early diagnosis, and the importance of equitable access to care.
World Lung Day was created by the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS)to draw attention to respiratory diseases, which remain among the leading causes of illness and death globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Common lung diseases and illnesses
While genetic factors play a role in some common lung diseases, such as asthma, many others, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, tuberculosis, and lung cancer, are manageable or preventable with early care or lifestyle changes.
“Prevention primarily centers on eliminating avoidable exposures,” said Dr. Peter Hahn, a Board-Certified Pulmonologist with Good Shepherd Health Care System in Hermiston. “Avoiding tobacco smoke-whether through smoking cessation or steering clear of secondhand smoke-is paramount.”
COPD, asthma, interstitial lung disease, and lung cancer are some of the most prevalent respiratory conditions that Dr. Hahn encounters at Good Shepherd.
Taking precautions against indoor air pollutants, such as mold, dust mites, pet dander, and secondhand smoke is also beneficial in maintaining long-term lung health.
Environmental factors, including air pollutants and particulate matter, such as wildfire smoke, can also negatively impact lung health.
“When inhaled, these fine particles penetrate deep into the lung tissue, causing oxidative stress and cellular damage,” said Dr. Hahn.
That stress and damage accumulates over time and can worsen asthma and COPD conditions and can increase the long-term risk of lung cancer.
Preventing respiratory illness and disease
Yearly screening for lung cancer is recommended for individuals who smoke or have history of smoking, including those who have quit in the past 15 years, and those between the ages of 50 and 80.
low-dose computed tomography (also called a low-dose CT scan, or LDCT), is the recommended screening method for lung cancer.
“Because early-stage lung cancer rarely present symptoms in their infancy, screening allows us to catch nodules and abnormalities when they are small, localized, and most amenable to curative treatment,” said Dr. Hahn.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only about 18% of U.S. adults for whom screening for lung cancer has been recommended, have been screened.
Possible barriers to lung health care include geography or lack of transportation in rural areas, economic factors, provider shortages, insurance coverage, and a lack of awareness for screening criteria.
“Bridging this gap requires active community outreach, mobile or telehealth options, and breaking down stigmas associated with respiratory conditions and smoking history so patients feel empowered to seek care,” said Dr. Hahn.
Good Shepherd Pulmonology
Pulmonologists Dr. Hahn and Dr. Manmohan Biring with Good Shepherd Pulmonology offer patient-centered comprehensive care ensuring the best possible treatment for lung and respiratory conditions.
Good Shepherd Pulmonology offers a range of services from managing chronic issues such as asthma, COPD, and sleep disorders to advanced diagnostic tests utilizing robotic bronchoscopy, as well as preventive measures, and personalized treatment plans.
“At Good Shepherd Pulmonology, we provide comprehensive, state-of-the-art respiratory care right here in Hermiston,” said Dr. Hahn.
Dedicated programs, including targeted lung cancer screening, pulmonary rehabilitation, and smoking cessation support are also available for patients through Good Shepherd Pulmonology.
According to Dr. Hahn, advanced technology has revolutionized the field of pulmonology, especially in regard to precision diagnostics.
“Tools like the ION Robotic Bronchoscopy platform allow us to navigate the ultra-thin peripheral branches of the lungs with unprecedented stability and precision,” said Dr. Hahn. “This enables us to safely biopsy tiny pulmonary nodules that were previously unreachable, leading to earlier, definitive diagnoses and targeted treatment plans without resorting to more invasive surgical procedures.”
Good Shepherd is now the only healthcare facility within a 300-mile radius to utilize the state-of-the-art ION Robotic Bronchoscopy, allowing patients to stay closer to home for their care.
This year, Good Shepherd Pulmonology also plans to introduce Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction (BLVR), a new technology that can effectively treat severe cases of emphysema.
This World Lung Day everyone can take a few small steps toward improved lung health, including assessing your personal risk factors for lung disease, staying up to date on vaccinations for respiratory illnesses, and exercising regularly.
“If you experience chronic cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing, don’t brush it off-consult your primary care provider or a pulmonologist early,” said Dr. Hahn.
Good Shepherd Pulmonology is located at 620 NW 11th Street, Suite M-201 in Hermiston and can be reached at 541.667.3868. Appointments may also be requested online.
More information about Good Shepherd Pulmonology is available online, including a questionnaire to see if you are eligible for lung cancer screening.
