Introduction

Lung cancer and chronic pulmonary diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) and asthma, represent some of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Together, these conditions account for millions of deaths annually and impose a profound social and economic burden on healthcare systems. Tobacco use, environmental exposures, occupational hazards and aging populations remain the primary drivers of these diseases, although genetic and biological factors also contribute significantly. The global rise in urbanization and industrialization has further exacerbated air pollution, increasing the prevalence of chronic respiratory diseases. The global burden of lung cancer and chronic pulmonary diseases is not evenly distributed, with Low- And Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) bearing a disproportionate share of the impact. Limited access to healthcare, delayed diagnosis, lack of preventive strategies and financial constraints hinder effective management in resource-limited regions. Addressing the global challenge requires a multifaceted approach that integrates prevention, policy reform, equitable access to healthcare and continued research into novel treatments [1].

Description

Lung cancer continues to be the most lethal malignancy worldwide, accounting for approximately 1.8 million deaths annually. The majority of cases are linked to cigarette smoking, but second-hand smoke, occupational exposures and environmental pollutants also contribute significantly. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represents nearly 85% of cases, while small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is less common but more aggressive. Advances in screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT), have improved early detection in high-risk populations, but implementation remains limited globally. Targeted therapies and immunotherapy have revolutionized treatment in recent years, yet survival rates in many regions remain dismal due to late-stage diagnosis. The economic burden of lung cancer is also substantial, encompassing direct medical costs and indirect losses related to productivity and caregiving

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is another major contributor to global respiratory disease burden, affecting over 300 million people worldwide. It is primarily associated with smoking but also linked to biomass fuel exposure and occupational hazards, especially in LMICs. COPD leads to progressive airflow limitation, recurrent exacerbations and increased risk of comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease. The disease ranks among the top three causes of global mortality and is projected to rise further due to continued smoking prevalence and aging populations. Despite the availability of effective bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, underdiagnosis and poor adherence to treatment remain major challenges, particularly in resource-limited settings. COPD also contributes significantly to healthcare utilization, hospitalizations and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Asthma, while generally more manageable than COPD, remains a widespread chronic pulmonary disease affecting more than 250 million people globally. It disproportionately impacts children and young adults, significantly impairing quality of life and school or work productivity [3].

Although asthma mortality rates have declined in many regions due to improved therapies, the disease continues to cause substantial morbidity in LMICs where access to inhalers and long-term care is inadequate. Environmental factors, including allergens, pollution and climate change, contribute to rising prevalence and exacerbation frequency. The economic impact of asthma is particularly notable in terms of medication costs, emergency care and lost productivity. Importantly, asthma and COPD often overlap, complicating diagnosis and management and further straining healthcare systems. Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) add another layer to the global pulmonary disease burden.Rising awareness, improved imaging techniques and genetic research have led to earlier detection of ILDs, but therapeutic advancements remain limited compared to other respiratory conditions. Furthermore, environmental and occupational exposures continue to drive ILD cases in many parts of the world. The chronic and progressive nature of these diseases contributes to long-term healthcare dependency and reduced life expectancy. Together with lung cancer, COPD and asthma, ILDs highlight the need for integrated global strategies targeting early detection, equitable treatment and long-term disease management [4].

The future of managing lung cancer and chronic pulmonary diseases lies in precision medicine, digital health and global health equity initiatives. Advances in genetic and biomarker research may enable earlier diagnosis and personalized therapies tailored to individual disease profiles. Expanding the use of digital health technologies, such as telemedicine and smart inhalers, could improve disease monitoring and adherence, particularly in underserved regions. Strengthening tobacco control, environmental regulations and vaccination programs will be vital in reducing incidence rates. Ultimately, closing the healthcare gap between high- and low-income regions will determine the success of global strategies to lessen the burden of these devastating diseases [5].

Conclusion

The global burden of lung cancer and chronic pulmonary diseases underscores a major public health crisis with far-reaching medical, economic and societal implications. Despite significant progress in screening, treatment and disease management, disparities persist between high-income and low-income regions, where access to healthcare and preventive measures remains limited. The rising prevalence of risk factors such as tobacco use, air pollution and occupational exposures threatens to further escalate disease incidence worldwide. To effectively combat this burden, coordinated global action is required through policy reform, preventive strategies and expanded access to advanced therapies. Addressing these challenges will not only reduce mortality and disability but also significantly improve quality of life across populations.

Acknowledgment

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

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