Chronic lower airway diseases may have decreased in prevalence in the years between 1987-1994 and 2007-2010, according to Cara N. Halldin, Ph.D., and her associates.
Prevalence of physician-diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease decreased significantly for males in the second period, while asthma increased only in women. Airflow obstruction also decreased among those with shortness of breath and physician-diagnosed respiratory conditions. COPD outcomes and asthma were highly associated with lower education, smoking, being underweight, obesity, and occupational dust and fume exposure.
“Continued focus on prevention of these diseases through public health interventions is prudent,” the researchers recommended.
Find the full study at Chronic Respiratory Disease (doi:10.1177/1479972314562409).