COPD- Risk factors

Chronic Obstructed Pulmonary Disease ( COPD) is a non-communicable disease,  a chronic disease of the lungs.

The cause of COPD varies according to geographic area and socio-economic status.  In middle to high income countries tobacco smoke is the biggest health risk factor, this includes second-hand smoke and passive smoking.
In low income countries exposure to indoor pollution is the biggest risk factor, this pollution may be from:

• Biomass fuel used for heating and cooking
• Coal used for heating and household use

Even with non-smokers the health risk from biomass fuel is high.

Other risk factors for COPD are:

• Frequent lower respiratory infections in childhood
• Occupational chemicals and fumes

Protecting one's health from COPD involves certain lifestyles. Choosing to live and work in a clean air environment will contribute to the prevention of lung disease.

Smoking cessation  will protect health from COPD as well as  all non-communicable diseases and lung cancer.

Taking control of your health to prevent COPD will also protect you from cancer, diabetes, heart disease, strokes and premature deaths.

Learn how to become your first health insurance and prevent all noncommunicable diseases. CLICK HERE.

Arthritis- Methods of Treatment

The aims in treating arthritis are to control pain, improve quality of life and to restore function of the joint. These are the approved methods:

Medication:
1- To control pain
2-To relieve the inflammation-There is a group of drugs called anti-inflammatory that can be prescribed by a medical doctor.

Structured physical activity-This could involve physical/occupational therapy.

Weight loss planning- Obese people will be encouraged to lose weight.

Self-management- Patient education will prepare the person to manage the arthritis at home on a daily basis. This will require the development of specific skills.

Surgery- This will replace or repair the damage joint.

Medical aids and device-There are many devices and splints that are used to assist with joint function and to improve quality of life.  Many are available online, so people everywhere can have access to them.

The Arthritis Foundation has a number of programs to help people develop skills and increase their physical activity.

Click here to read about the risk factors for arthritis.