The Quezon City government announced a partnership with AstraZeneca Philippines to address the underdiagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in the city. Mayor Maria Josefina "Joy" G. Belmonte emphasized the importance of prevention in building healthy communities, as reported by BusinessWorld
COPD, a progressive lung disease that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is often underdiagnosed due to lack of awareness and access to diagnostic tools. The partnership aims to improve early detection and management of the condition in Quezon City, which has a large population and high air pollution levels that exacerbate respiratory illnesses.
According to the World Health Organization, COPD is the third leading cause of death globally. The Quezon City government's initiative with AstraZeneca is expected to include training for healthcare workers, provision of diagnostic equipment, and public awareness campaigns to reduce the disease's burden in the city.