Respiratory diseases on the rise: A growing concern for India

Recent survey of insurance claims data has revealed a significant increase in respiratory-related hospitalisations, particularly during winter. The findings highlight the increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and influenza, which significantly impact vulnerable age groups. Comparing insurance claims from 2022-23 to 2023-24, the data reveals a 5 per cent increase in respiratory-related claims, emphasising the seasonal spike in these ailments. Winter remains the peak period, with claims rising from 12 per cent in 2022-23 to 13 per cent in 2023-24, while claims in other seasons showed a slight decline. The financial burden has also escalated, with the average claim size increasing by 8 per cent, underscoring the rising healthcare costs. As air pollution, smoking, and environmental factors continue to worsen respiratory health, these insights reinforce the urgent need for proactive measures, including preventive healthcare, improved air quality, and increased awareness to mitigate the impact of respiratory diseases.

Children up to five years old and elderly individuals above 80 years are the most affected during winter due to weaker immune systems and heightened exposure to environmental pollutants. Claims data revealed a 7 per cent rise in respiratory-related hospitalisations among children, with an alarming 41 per cent surge in the 0-5 age group. Similarly, claims for individuals over 80 years grew by 14 per cent, with respiratory-related hospitalisations increasing by 24 per cent in this segment. The financial burden of respiratory diseases has also escalated, with the average claim size increasing by 8 per cent, from INR 54,629 in 2022-23 to INR 58,727 in 2023-24. This rise underscores the growing healthcare costs associated with treating respiratory illnesses during the colder months.

Metropolitan cities have seen a sharp spike in respiratory-related claims, likely due to pollution and higher population density. Delhi NCR reported the highest increase in claims, rising from 389 in 2022-23 to 520 in 2023-24. Other urban centers such as Pune (257 to 396), Mumbai MMR (253 to 307), and Bangalore (228 to 279) also witnessed a significant surge. Additional cities, including Hyderabad, Ernakulam, Chennai, Nashik, Surat, and Ahmedabad, reported an upward trend in claims.

Despite the growing concern, awareness about respiratory diseases remains alarmingly low, even as cases continue to rise due to worsening air quality, smoking, indoor pollution, and occupational hazards. A 5 per cent increase in respiratory-related claims highlights the urgent need for preventive measures, particularly in metropolitan cities like Delhi NCR, Pune, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where poor air quality and high population density have intensified the crisis.

Key contributors include an Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 500, where breathing is equivalent to smoking 25-30 cigarettes daily, affecting millions. Tobacco use, with over 267 million users in India, significantly exacerbates conditions like COPD and lung cancer, leading to 1.2-1.3 million deaths annually. Indoor air pollution from biomass fuels in rural areas and occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals further compounds the issue, making respiratory diseases a pressing public health concern.

A multi-pronged approach is essential for prevention and control. Strengthening air pollution control policies, promoting clean energy solutions, and enforcing quit smoking programs are critical steps. Additionally, widespread vaccination, diligent hand hygiene, and early diagnosis through lung function tests (PFT, ABG, FeNO) can significantly reduce the disease burden. Public health campaigns must target both urban and rural populations, promoting awareness, lifestyle modifications, and improved healthcare access. 

On an individual level, proactive measures such as wearing high-filtration masks in heavily polluted areas, using advanced air purifiers, and minimising prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can help mitigate risks. A nutrient-rich diet can further strengthen immunity. Meanwhile, treatment options range from symptom management to advanced interventions like oxygen therapy. Enhancing diagnostic facilities and ensuring accessible healthcare will be crucial in controlling respiratory diseases and safeguarding public health.