September 25 is World Lung Day, and pediatric pulmonologist Dr Jeni Stoichkova, head of the Bulgarian Medical Association's regional branch in Burgas, says parents need to think about their children's breathing much earlier than most do.

"The theme for 2026 is 'Lung health across the lifespan'. Today is a reminder of how important it is to look after our lungs — not just once symptoms show up, but long before that," Dr Stoichkova says.

She says the issue is especially delicate for young children, because their immune and respiratory systems take years to develop fully. Frequent chest infections, a cough that won't go away, wheezing, allergies and asthma shouldn't be looked at one by one, she explains — behind each of them is a specific child, not just a disease. She points to several things that matter:

  • how the respiratory system develops;
  • genetic and epigenetic factors;
  • a tendency toward allergies;
  • infections and how the immune system responds;
  • the gut and airway microbiome;
  • diet and metabolic health;
  • the environment and air quality.

That's why, Dr Stoichkova says, doctors today need to look at the whole child, not just the problem that brought them in.

"As a pediatric pulmonologist, I believe our most important job isn't just to treat the illness, but to help every child build and keep the best lung health possible. Because looking after your lungs starts in childhood," says Dr Jeni Stoichkova.