Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026
09:39
A Microfluidic Model of Biomimetically Breathing Pulmonary Acinar Airways
Published on: May 9, 2016
Airflow limitation is underrecognized in well-functioning older people
G W Waterer1, J Y Wan, S B Kritchevsky
1Methodist-Lebonheur Healthcare Foundation, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|September 14, 2001
Summary
Airflow limitation, a common respiratory issue in older adults, is often underrecognized and undertreated. This study found a significant prevalence of undiagnosed airflow limitation, highlighting the need for increased physician vigilance and timely interventions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pulmonology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Dyspnea is a prevalent symptom in the elderly population.
- Reduced forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) is linked to increased mortality and hospitalizations.
- Underdiagnosed airflow limitation can worsen respiratory and cardiovascular health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of airflow limitation in well-functioning older adults.
- To assess the current treatment and diagnosis rates of airflow limitation in this demographic.
- To identify potential gaps in the management of respiratory conditions in the elderly.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional analysis of a prospective cohort study (Health, Aging, and Body Composition study).
- Spirometry was conducted on 3,075 participants aged 70-79, with data collected via interviews.
- Airflow limitation defined by reduced FEV1/FVC ratio; severity classified using American Thoracic Society criteria.
Main Results:
- 10.5% of participants exhibited airflow limitation, with a notable percentage (16.4%) never having smoked.
- Less than 40% of those with airflow limitation reported a lung disease diagnosis.
- Only 20.5% of individuals with moderate to severe airflow limitation had used a bronchodilator recently.
Conclusions:
- A substantial proportion of well-functioning older adults have undiagnosed airflow limitation.
- Low rates of bronchodilator use indicate a significant unmet treatment need.
- Healthcare providers should increase vigilance for airflow limitation and its treatment in older patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:05Breathing
The process of breathing, inhaling and exhaling, involves the coordinated movement of the chest wall, the lungs, and the muscles that move them. Two muscle groups with important roles in breathing are the diaphragm, located directly below the lungs, and the intercostal muscles, which lie between the ribs. When the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and creating more room for the lungs to expand. When the intercostal muscles contract, the ribs...
01:23Physiological Control of Respiration
Introduction
Breathing, a seemingly passive process, is regulated by the respiratory center in the brainstem. This center coordinates the involuntary control of respirations, which means it occurs without conscious effort, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted pattern.
Regulation of Ventilation
The body maintains ventilation by monitoring levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen ion concentration (pH) in the arterial blood. Among these factors, the level of CO2 plays a crucial...
Breathing, a seemingly passive process, is regulated by the respiratory center in the brainstem. This center coordinates the involuntary control of respirations, which means it occurs without conscious effort, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted pattern.
Regulation of Ventilation
The body maintains ventilation by monitoring levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen ion concentration (pH) in the arterial blood. Among these factors, the level of CO2 plays a crucial...
01:19Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Besides the pressure difference between the external environment and the lungs, the airflow rate and ease of pulmonary ventilation are also influenced by three other factors: surface tension of the fluid in the alveoli, compliance of the lungs, and airway resistance.
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
01:21Acute Respiratory Failure-II
Type I Respiratory Failure, or hypoxemic respiratory failure, occurs when the partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) in arterial blood falls below 60 mmHg while breathing room air without a corresponding increase in arterial carbon dioxide levels (PaCO2). This condition highlights a significant impairment in the lungs' capacity to oxygenate the blood.
The underlying physiological abnormalities that contribute to hypoxemic respiratory failure include:
The underlying physiological abnormalities that contribute to hypoxemic respiratory failure include:
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) pathophysiology is intricate and multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing and treating COPD. Here is an in-depth look at the critical elements in the pathophysiology of COPD:
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Inflammation
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic bronchitis is a key phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by airway-centered inflammation and mucus overproduction. It develops from long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke, which triggers a persistent inflammatory response.Cellular and Structural ChangesInflammation initially affects the large bronchi and later the smaller airways, with infiltration by immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, and...