Dubai Miracle Garden’s Floral Lungs: A Breath of Awareness for Lung Health

A Unique Floral Installation with a Purpose

Visitors to the Dubai Miracle Garden are in for a unique experience with the unveiling of a new floral installation that carries a significant health message. This installation, crafted in the shape of lungs using vibrant flowers, is part of a campaign to raise awareness about Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD). The initiative, known as ‘Think Lungs,’ is a collaborative effort between Boehringer Ingelheim and the Emirates Thoracic Society (ETS), and it was officially launched on February 22.

Understanding Interstitial Lung Disease

Interstitial Lung Disease is a term that encompasses over 200 progressive lung diseases, which often lead to inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. These conditions can develop silently, making early detection and awareness crucial. Dr. Bassam Mahboub, Head of the Pulmonology Department at Rashid Hospital and Vice President of ETS, explains that many people are unaware of ILD until it is too late. Unlike a heart attack, ILD progresses quietly, gradually making breathing more difficult.

The Campaign’s Visual Metaphor

The floral lung installation serves as a powerful visual metaphor. Dr. Mahboub describes it as “impossible to ignore,” emphasizing that, like the delicate flowers, our lungs require care and attention. The campaign aims to shift public perception by associating ‘breathtaking’ moments not just with beauty but also with the struggle faced by those with ILD. The goal is to encourage people to reflect on the importance of lung health and to start conversations about it before symptoms arise.

A Call for Increased Awareness and Early Detection

Dr. Mahboub stresses the need for increased awareness of lung health, noting that many people are unfamiliar with ILD. The campaign aspires to create a community that prioritizes lung health, leading to early detection and better treatment outcomes. “Think Lungs. Because every breath tells a story,” he states, encapsulating the campaign’s message. By fostering a society that values lung health, the initiative hopes to achieve success through awareness, early detection, and ultimately, a healthier community.