Definition

Diseases affecting the lungs, trachea, and airways.

Types

Chronic Respiratory Diseases

  • Asthma
  • COPD
  • Occupational Lung Disease
  • Pulmonary Hypertension

Risk Factors

  • Tobacco Smoke (primary, or secondhand)
  • Air Pollution
  • Occupational Chemicals & Dust (Asbestos, Radon)
  • Frequent Lower Respiratory Infection as a Child

Prevention

  • Air Quality Improvements
  • Increase in Childhood Health Standards
  • Diet and Nutrition
  • Occupational Health (adequate ventilation, early detection)
  • Tobacco Control (quitting, removing second hand smoke, not smoking during pregnancy)

Vaccines

People with lung disease are at a higher risk for serious problems due to vaccine preventable diseases. The CDC recommends all adults receive:

  • Influenza – recommended every year, age 6 months and older
  • Tdap – (if an adult did not receive it as an adolescent to protect against pertussis (whooping cough), and then a Td (tetanus, diphtheria) booster shot every 10 years.

Additionally, the CDC recommends the following vaccines for adults suffering from lung disease (talk to your doctor about which vaccines are right for you):

Lung Disease and COVID-19 (NACCD)

Both lung disease and COVID-19 can harm your lungs. What you can do:

  • Keep to your Asthma Action Plan if you have one (www.cdc.gov/asthma/actionplan.html)
  • Take your medications as directed
  • Have an emergency supply of prescription medications
  • Stop smoking and using e-cigarettes

Resources