June 26th, 2018
Yes, this is true. According to the latest data reported by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an average American female lives 5 years longer than an average American male. This data is alarming at so many levels; especially since in a number of cases, low life expectancy in males is attributed mainly to the lack of concern and poor lifestyle choices in males. For example, data reported by National Center for Health Statistics suggested that about 20% males or 1 in 5 males have not seen any healthcare provider in the past 5 years. Lets look into respiratory diseases.
This year at National Men’s Health Week, the goal is to highlight the most common yet preventable diseases among men by educating the masses and creating awareness as to how simple lifestyle modifications can improve the quality of life and overall health outcomes.
Chronic lower respiratory disease is an umbrella term that include health issues like emphysema, chronic bronchitis and COPD (or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). According to latest data reported by Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 70,000 men in US suffers an early death due to chronic respiratory diseases. It is noteworthy that these statistics makes lower respiratory diseases as the 4th most common cause of death – attributing to about 5.2% of all deaths among US males each year.
Several congenital (by birth), genetic (inherited from either parents) and acquired (environmental) risk factors are involved in the pathogenesis of respiratory diseases in males. Following are the most established risk factors that are usually seen in the setting of respiratory diseases:
What are some classic symptoms of respiratory diseases?
The sign and symptoms of respiratory diseases vary according to the nature and severity of illness. Classic symptoms are:
If you are experiencing disturbing respiratory symptoms, speak to your primary care provider at earliest convenience. Your doctor may advice you a variety of breathing tests to assess the lung functions. Depending upon the cause of your illness and intensity of symptoms, your doctor may advise you: