Emerging Infectious Diseases

Lung Disease & Respiratory Health

Chronic lower respiratory diseases are a set of conditions that includes chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. There are many different lung diseases, some of which are caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Other lung diseases are associated with environmental factors, including asthma, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

Respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD involve a narrowing or blockage of airways that reduce air flow. Environmental exposure causes to lung disease include asbestos, radon gas, air pollution, tobacco smoke and chemicals such as uranium, beryllium, vinyl chloride, and arsenic.