Summary
Breathing is essential for life, and breathing disorders threaten life. The number of cases of asthma and other major lung diseases is on the rise worldwide, perhaps due to increases in pollution and stress. The statistics are staggering: Approximately thirty million Americans are currently living with some form of chronic breathing disorder, and lung disease is the third leading cause of death in this country. More than seventeen million Americans suffer from asthma, and the prevalence rate per thousand persons has increased by 63.2 percent in recent years. That number is still rising, especially among children. In addition, the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) estimated the prevalence of chronic bronchitis and emphysema at 16.4 million sufferers.
The Encyclopedia of Asthma and Respiratory Disorders provides students, professionals, and general readers with a comprehensive look at various breathing disorders. It covers key afflictions, symptoms, causes of asthma and lung disease, treatments and medications, key terms and jargon, statistics, and breakthrough research. Twelve extensive appendixes include directories of useful organizations and publications, statistical data, and other helpful information.
More than 1,300 cross-referenced entries include acupuncture, air pollution, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, anthrax, cardiopulmonary arrest, ECHO virus, Flonase, Hippocrates, immune system, maximum breathing capacity, Pickwickian syndrome, pleuropheumonolysis, tracheotomy care, weed pollen allergy, wheeze, and yoga.