World Lung Day is an annual campaign observed on September 25th to raise awareness about lung health and promote better lung care around the world. As we age, our lungs, like many other organs, gradually lose some of their capacity.

To help people understand this process, doctors use the concept of "lung age," which reflects how well, or poorly, the lungs are functioning compared to a person's actual age. This measure often serves as a reality check, especially for smokers and those exposed to pollution, highlighting premature lung damage and encouraging healthier choices.

The most common way to assess lung age is through a spirometry test. In this procedure, a person takes a deep breath and then exhales forcefully into a device that records lung volume and airflow speed.

The results are compared to normal values based on age, height, sex, and ethnicity. If the readings are below expected levels, it may suggest the lungs are "older" than the person's real age. For instance, a 40-year-old smoker with reduced lung function might be told that their lungs resemble those of someone aged 65.

Beyond spirometry, other tests and imaging methods can also provide insights into lung health. A chest X-ray or high-resolution CT scan (HRCT) can reveal long-term structural changes like scarring, emphysema, or fibrosis. 

Source:Ndtv