Preventing Chronic Respiratory Disease

300 million people across the globe suffer from asthma, according to the World Health Organization, and it is the most common chronic illness in children. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is responsible for 250 deaths worldwide every hour and is the 5th biggest killer globally (British Lung Foundation).

According to the World Health Organization the most important risk factors for chronic respiratory disease are:

• Tobacco smoke

• Air pollution

• Allergens

• Occupational risks 

However, it has also been suggested that there is a link between respiratory dieases such as asthma and COPD and obesity (Grammatopoulou et al. 2010 and ten Hacken 2009). Recent studies have shown that the inflammatory effects of obesity may contribute to the severity of asthma (Michelson et al. 2009).

This link between obesity and chronic lung conditions highlights the importance of adequate nutrition and physical activity levels for prevention. Policies to support active transport – walking and cycling – benefit health outcomes by both increasing activity levels and reducing air pollution from motor vehicles. 

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