Mahajan Imaging reports 29% of young adults show early lung damage in routine CT scans

An internal review conducted by Mahajan Imaging & Labs has identified a growing trend of chronic lung abnormalities among young adults undergoing routine CT chest scans in Delhi and nearby regions. Based on more than 4,000 CT scans performed in 2024, nearly 29 per cent of individuals exhibited structural changes in the lungs. These included findings such as bronchiectasis, emphysema, fibrosis, and bronchial wall thickening.

Dr Harsh Mahajan, Founder and Chief Radiologist at Mahajan Imaging & Labs, stated, “We are noticing a steady and significant number of CT chest scans—almost one in three—showing abnormalities that were traditionally seen more frequently in older populations. These include irreversible changes such as bronchiectasis and early emphysema, which could lead to long-term health complications if left undetected or unmanaged.”

The analysis was based on routine diagnostic data and is not part of a formal clinical study. The review excluded cases related to infections and tumour diagnoses to focus on structural lung abnormalities. According to the team, this pattern of findings in younger individuals, some in their 20s and 30s, points to a larger public health concern.

While specific causes for the lung changes cannot be definitively assigned, contributing factors may include environmental pollution, smoking, vaping, indoor air quality, and undiagnosed respiratory conditions. Experts at Mahajan Imaging suggest these findings reflect broader urban health challenges faced by residents in cities such as Delhi.

“In cities like Delhi, where air quality remains a persistent concern, the lungs are already under considerable stress. In such a scenario, risk factors like tobacco exposure—whether direct or passive—could make matters worse,” said Dr Mahajan.

This development coincides with global anti-tobacco awareness efforts and draws attention to the growing need for early screening. Mahajan Imaging & Labs underlines the role of preventive diagnostics in identifying silent but progressive respiratory conditions among younger populations.

Globally, countries such as Brazil have documented rising concerns over lung damage in youth due to a combination of respiratory illnesses and environmental exposures. Similar trends in India highlight the importance of public health initiatives focused on respiratory wellness, early intervention, and informed lifestyle choices.

The findings call for increased awareness, regular lung screenings, and an integrated approach to addressing environmental and lifestyle risk factors to mitigate long-term respiratory complications.