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[Lung diseases in the elderly. Pathogenetic significance of pollutants and environmental factors]
Abstract:
In the elderly pneumoconioses due to anorganic or organic dusts are not very common. The incidence of mesothelioma is increasing also in the elderly population. Mesothelioma has become the most frequent occupational malignancy. There is also evidence that mesothelioma can be produced by other fibers than asbestos particles. The paper discusses further the effect of passive smoking, where there is new evidence that passive-smokers are exposed to a higher risk for bronchial cancer than non-smokers. The interactions between smoking and air pollution and morbidity of chronic bronchitis are illustrated. New aspects of pathogenesis and pathophysiology of chronic obstructive lung disease and pulmonary emphysema due to smoking as the most frequent environmental lung disease in the elderly are further discussed. A brief overview of the therapeutical approach to chronic obstructive lung disease including new forms of treatment of cor pulmonale is finally given.
Insights
Pneumoconioses are uncommon in the elderly, but mesothelioma incidence is rising. This review covers occupational lung cancer, passive smoking risks, and chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) pathogenesis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Occupational Health
- Geriatrics
Context:
- Pneumoconioses are rare in the elderly.
- Mesothelioma, an occupational malignancy, is increasing in older adults.
- Other fibers besides asbestos may cause mesothelioma.
Purpose:
- To review current understanding of occupational lung diseases in the elderly.
- To discuss the impact of passive smoking on bronchial cancer risk.
- To explore chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and pulmonary emphysema in the elderly, focusing on smoking and environmental factors.
Summary:
- Mesothelioma incidence is rising in the elderly, becoming a frequent occupational malignancy, potentially linked to non-asbestos fibers.
- New evidence suggests passive smokers face higher bronchial cancer risk.
- Pathogenesis, pathophysiology, and therapeutic approaches for smoking-related COPD and pulmonary emphysema in the elderly, including cor pulmonale, are discussed.
Impact:
- Highlights the growing threat of mesothelioma in the elderly population.
- Emphasizes the significant health risks associated with passive smoking.
- Provides insights into managing common environmental lung diseases in older adults, such as COPD.