Causecast

by SARAH NELSON, Contributing Writer

This year, the world will celebrate the first ever World Pneumonia Day. The global effort will take place Monday, November 2 with the ultimate goal of bringing attention to the preventable deaths caused by pneumonia each year. World Pneumonia Day is a collaborative effort of more than 50 child health organizations, including international governments, NGOs, community-based organizations, individuals and research institutions that have combined their influence to form the Global Coalition Against Pneumonia.

Pneumonia is one of those diseases that is preventable, completely treatable, but often ends in death because it goes untreated or undetected until its too late. Pneumonia remains one of the largest killers in developing world – claiming more victims than malaria, AIDS, and measles combined. There are proven vaccinations available, but often cost or limited access prevent those affected in the developing world from taking the necessary steps to avert the disease. Neglecting the symptoms eventually leads to serious complication and, tragically, can ultimately end in death.

Here are the facts:

• Pneumonia kills more than two million children under the age of five every year, taking more victims than any other disease.

• Every 15 seconds, pneumonia claims the life of another child.

• Globally, bacteria such as Hib and pneumococcus are estimated to cause more than 50 percent of pneumonia deaths in children under five years of age.

• The groups most at risk for developing pneumonia are children under five and adults over 65.

• Tobacco smoke and other indoor air pollution can also increase chances of being more susceptible to pneumonia.

• Those living HIV positive face a much greater chance of dying from pneumonia complications.

• Malnourishment leading to a weakened immune system creates a higher risk for serious complications from pneumonia.

• Besides vaccination, contracting pneumonia can be greatly reduced with simple hand-washing and limiting exposure to pollutants.

• Experts believe that exclusive breast-feeding, vaccinations and antibiotics can prevent 1.2 million deaths caused by pneumonia annually. That would decrease pneumonia deaths by sixty-percent.

Addressing the mortality rate associated with pneumonia is key to reaching the U.N. Millennium Development Goal of reducing the child mortality rate by two-thirds.

Here are FIVE things you can do to help raise awareness and bring an end to the preventable deaths caused by pneumonia:

• Take this interactive quiz to test your pneumonia knowledge.

• Sign the pledge to fight pneumonia and join the coalition.

• Donate to Save the Children’s efforts to fight pneumonia and other preventable diseases around the world.

• Educate others about pneumonia prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

• Find World Pneumonia Day activities in your area and get involved.

Photo by Julien Harneis, flickr.