The statement was delivered by a pulmonologist from the Indonesian Pulmonologist Association (PDPI), Dr. Susanthy Djajalaksana Sp. P(K) FISR, at an online press conference to mark World Pneumonia Day and World COPD Day here on Wednesday.
"The evidence is very strong, walking and exercising on a static bike can maintain lung health, physical, and emotional condition," Djajalaksana said.
Physical activity is very important, especially for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), whose condition can degenerate if infected with COVID-19, she emphasized.
COPD causes inflammation in the respiratory tract that can eventually get heavier or worse, she said. The airways of people with COPD can continue to deteriorate if they are not treated properly, she added.
According to Djajalaksana, COPD is caused by exposure to toxic substances, pollution, or other irritants in the air. Exposure to cigarette smoke and air pollution is the most common cause of this non-communicable disease.
In addition to performing physical activity, COPD sufferers are also advised to avoid exposure to air pollution or cigarette smoke among others so that their airway inflammation does not become worse, she said.
Even for those who are healthy, avoiding air pollutants is highly recommended to prevent COPD, she added.
Another preventive measure is to keep the body's immunity high by eating a balanced nutritious diet, Djajalaksana said.
People with COPD must maintain their health under the guidance of a pulmonologist even during the COVID-19 pandemic, she advised. COPD requires lifelong treatment to control its severity, she said.
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Translator: Aditya R, Kenzu T
Editor: Suharto
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