SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
UAE experts are addressing chronic respiratory diseases like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) through new therapies, public health initiatives, as well as enhanced patient support to improve lives and slow disease progression.
Dr. Bassam Mahboub, Head of the Respiratory Department at Rashid Hospital, shared insights with Aletihad on COPD diagnosis, treatment, and patient support at the hospital.
He explained that Rashid Hospital utilises patient history, spirometry, and imaging for COPD diagnosis, with treatments like bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and biological therapies to reduce symptoms and slow progression.
"The UAE recently introduced a groundbreaking biological therapy for COPD, marking a significant advancement in COPD management," he added.
One major challenge that Dr. Mahboub highlighted was the global underdiagnosis of COPD and rising smoking rates.
Rashid Hospital rapidly intervenes in severe COPD cases with nebulised bronchodilators, antibiotics, and steroids, while specialists advise patients on triggers and self-care.
"Early detection is crucial for managing COPD effectively, as it helps prevent severe lung damage," Dr. Mahboub said.
Early diagnosis allows for milder treatments and lifestyle changes, he said.
The hospital advocates self-care education, smoking cessation, and pulmonary rehab as ways to manage COPD.
"Biological therapy provides an alternative to traditional treatments, reducing the reliance on corticosteroids and other medications for eligible patients," noted Dr. Mahboub.
Rashid Hospital's pulmonary rehab includes breathing exercises, aerobic training, and strength activities, with referrals to Dubai Rehab Centre for intensive programmes.
Dr. Mahboub highlighted quitting smoking as the primary prevention measure.
"The most important measure is smoking cessation, as smoking is the primary cause of COPD," he said.
Dr. Hamad Alhameli, President of the Allergy and Clinical Immunology Group associated with the Emirates Thoracic Society, shared insights with Aletihad on COPD and its diagnosis at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.
Dr. Alhameli noted that the first criteria "is that the patient has a history of smoking and airflow restriction, with symptoms like cough with or without phlegm, and dyspnea, wheezing."
"Around 30-40 percent of COPD patients, those with type 2 inflammation, now benefit from biological treatments," he said, adding that the UAE was the second country worldwide after Germany to license this therapy.
When asked if allergies contribute to COPD, Dr. Alhameli clarified: "It is not an allergy disease. Smoking, inhalation of toxic gases, pollution, occupational exposure to dust, fumes, chemicals, and even genetic factors are the primary causes."
Rehabilitation, including smoking cessation programmes, plays a key role in COPD management.
"Most government and private hospitals offer smoking cessation clinics. Stopping smoking is critical for symptom improvement," he stressed.
Dr. Alhameli advises patients to quit smoking, be physically active, and follow their prescribed medications to improve lung function.
He further urged early detection, proper treatment, and stricter laws to prohibit smoking and vaping.
"Vaping is increasing, especially among the younger generation. This must be controlled," he urged.
"My message: Do not start smoking, and if you do smoke, it may be time to quit."