Why Millennials Are Forgoing Lung Tests—And Why That's a Problem
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Millennials should prioritize annual check-ups, shouldn't ignore chronic wheezing or coughing, and above all, should not wait for an emergency to do something.
World Asthma Day is a timely wake-up call for the increasing respiratory health problems plaguing today's youth generation—most prominently, millennials. Although asthma and other chronic lung conditions are generally perceived to be diseases of the elderly or genetically predisposed, the truth is that lifestyle and environmental factors are placing millennials in greater peril. Nevertheless, still too many from this generation are forgoing regular lung function tests, a trend with dire consequences. Dr Kamran Ali, Principal Consultant, Lung Transplant, Thoracic Surgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket shares all you need to know:
Millennials tend to blame breathlessness or fatigue on stress, lack of fitness, or job burnout—rarely suspecting a lung condition. Not wanting to seek out a physician for something as nebulous as 'exhaustion" results in a delayed diagnosis. By the time pulmonary function tests are ultimately conducted on some, the disease may already be in an advanced or severe state.
What is particularly concerning is growing exposure to air pollution, indoor sedentary habits, vaping, and untreated allergies—each triggering or worsening asthma. In light of such considerations, lung test rates among urban-dwelling millennials are woefully low. This health-aware and technology-driven generation paradoxically undervalues the importance of preventive respiratory care.
Lung function tests like spirometry are simple, non-invasive, and inexpensive. They identify early signs of airway obstruction even before disability on the basis of symptoms. It allows intervention in a timely fashion, along with lifestyle modification, and proper treatment regimens to prevent progression to chronic asthma or even COPD.
'As a thoracic surgeon, I see many patients on a regular basis who could have skipped surgery or the hospital if only their condition were diagnosed earlier," adds Dr Ali. The message today on Asthma Day is easy: millennials need to be serious about lung health. Prioritize annual check-ups, don't ignore chronic wheezing or coughing, and above all, don't wait for an emergency to do something. Being able to breathe easily should never be taken for granted.
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First Published:
May 05, 2025, 17:58 IST
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