Chandigarh, July 28: Recent health data from Punjab’s universal health coverage scheme reveals that chronic lung illnesses are increasingly impacting the state’s active workforce, with adults between 36 and 60 years accounting for over 39 per cent of total respiratory admissions. Between January and July 2026, the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana facilitated cashless treatment for 14,032 individuals, disbursing claims totaling ₹37.30 crore for advanced pulmonary care and thoracic operations.
The statistical breakdown released by the State Health Agency shows that working-age adults represented 5,559 cases, while senior citizens logged 5,659 cases. Younger demographics were also served, including 2,522 young adults and 292 pediatric patients. Demographically, 8,345 men received treatments worth ₹22.79 crore, 5,684 women received care valued at ₹14.50 crore, and three beneficiaries under the ‘Other’ gender category availed services.
Addressing the findings, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh asserted that delay in seeking clinical care often worsens patient outcomes.
“Breathlessness should never be ignored,” Dr. Balbir Singh stated. “Early treatment can save lungs, lives and livelihoods. The data highlights the urgent need for greater awareness about respiratory health. People often ignore a persistent cough or breathlessness, believing it is temporary or simply part of ageing. Unfortunately, chronic lung diseases progress silently. By the time many patients seek medical care, the damage is already significant.”
The monthly breakdown illustrates a sharp rise in service utilization over the first half of the year, growing from 1,332 admissions in January to 2,509 cases in April. Expenditures peaked in June at ₹6.73 crore across 2,004 cases, reflecting the financial weight of complex surgical interventions and intensive care.
Dr. Balbir Singh affirmed the necessity of preventative health practices, particularly among populations subject to environmental and occupational hazards.
“Early diagnosis, quitting tobacco, reducing exposure to air pollution, workplace protection and timely medical care remain the most effective ways to prevent severe chronic lung disease and avoid major thoracic surgery,” Dr. Balbir Singh asserted. He advised individuals with chronic conditions to maintain regular check-ups while taking active measures to minimize exposure to dusty and polluted environments.
