This article is written by Ahmed Salah Awad Attia from Bashkir Medical University.

Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right that allows individuals to communicate their thoughts, opinions, and identities without fear of repression.

This liberty is essential not only for personal development but also for societal progress. In recent years, the freedom to express oneself has led to significant changes in various aspects of life, including lifestyle choices such as smoking. One noteworthy trend is the increasing prevalence of smoking among women, which has been linked to a rise in respiratory diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Historically, smoking has often been portrayed as a male-dominated activity, with societal norms associating it with masculinity. However, as women’s rights movements gained momentum, women began to assert their autonomy and make choices that were previously stigmatized.

Advertisements and media portrayals further glamorized smoking, making it an appealing choice for many women seeking empowerment and independence.

Unfortunately, this newfound freedom has come with significant health consequences. The rise in smoking among women has contributed to an alarming increase in respiratory illnesses.

Why do women suffer from COPD more than men?

Women may also be more sensitive to the harming effects of tobacco smoke and

women may be more sensitive to environmental pollutants and second-hand smoke then men.

The reason behind these differences, Women have smaller lungs then men

What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

COPD is a complex disease that affects patients in both developed and developing countries around the world. Historically considered a men’s disease, the prevalence and mortality of COPD has increased more rapidly in women than in men during the past twenty years.

What is another name for COPD?

COPD is sometimes called emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Emphysema usually refers to destruction of the tiny air sacs at the end of the airways in the lungs.

Chronic bronchitis refers to a chronic cough with the production of phlegm resulting from inflammation in the airways.

What are the causes of COPD?

The review, published in Translational Research, examines potential reasons for this increase. The change has been largely attributed to the changing smoking trends during the last 50 years.

Other environmental risk factors, such as exposures to occupational dusts or chemicals and air pollution.

The dangers of smoking and the role of hormones: men and women differ in susceptibility to smoking, possibly because of hormonal mechanisms.

female sex hormones have been known to influence airway function, and during childhood, girls experience a larger reduction in lung function than boys when exposed to either tobacco smoke or environmental air pollution.

COPD impacts men and women differently. Women with COPD report more shortness of breath, and worse symptom-related quality of life. Women will more often report symptoms of anxiety and depression then men.

A recent study found that 1 in 4 patients with COPD had persistent depressive symptoms over three years, and being female was associated with substantial increases in the odds of persistent depressive.

COPD often co-exists with other smoking-related diseases; however, the accompanying diseases tend to be different in men and women with COPD.

The increasing number of women with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD:

“Over my 30 years of treating patients, I’ve seen the number of women with COPD increase dramatically to where they now outnumber the number of men with COPD in my practice,” said Mannino, professor and chair of Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health at the UK College of Public Health. “Women with COPD are particularly at risk for certain complications, such as osteoporosis.”

A doctor from Bashkiria explained why COPD is dangerous?

Liliya Kozyreva chief pulmonologist of Bashkiria

Things people with COPD should do?

People living with COPD must be given information about their condition, treatment and self-care to help them to stay as active and healthy as possible.

WHO response:

COPD is included in the WHO Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

WHO is taking action to extend diagnosis of and treatment for COPD in a number of ways.

What are the contributions of the Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases?

The Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases (GARD) contributes to WHO’s work to prevent and control chronic respiratory diseases.

GARD is a voluntary alliance of national and international organizations and agencies from many countries committed to the vision of a world where all people breathe freely.

Balancing Freedom of Expression and Public Health:

In conclusion, while freedom of expression is vital for personal autonomy and societal growth, it can also lead to choices that have detrimental health impacts. The increase in smoking among women serves as a poignant example of how the desire for self-expression can intersect with public health challenges. It is essential for society to support individuals in making informed choices while promoting healthier lifestyles through education and awareness initiatives. Balancing the right to express oneself with the responsibility of ensuring one’s health is crucial for fostering a healthier future for all.