CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE REFLECTIVE ESSAY
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, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease 2
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Reflective Essay
Background
COPD denotes Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The increasing prevalence of this
disorder marks it as a significant global health concern, resulting in a considerable disease
burden for both the society and the infected individuals. The increase in the incidence and the
burden associated with COPD seem to be growing. Prince et al. (2016, p.331) blames several
factors for the increasing burden and prevalence of COPD, including the barely changing
smoking popularity, the overall aging linked to the global population, as well as increasing air
pollution across the world. More so, Guo et al. (2018, p.43) note that the disease might be one of
the significant causes of death and among the top causes of DALYs (disability-adjusted life
years) globally by the end of the next decade. In this case, COPD will present a high increase
regarding the DALY-caused rankings and mortality compared to 1990. Johnsen et al. (2016,
pp.39-48) highlight that deaths caused by Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are common in
the middle to low-income countries. Besides, these nations constitute about 90% of the
worldwide COPD deaths. In other words, professionals should place more effort and attention on
the control and prevention of COPD, particularly in these regions.
Regardless of denoting a growing worldwide health risk, experts still regard Chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease as a treatable and preventable health challenge. Pursuing this
further, suggested methods of managing COPD often revolve around the application of inhaled
medication. Furthermore, Guo et al. (2018, p.43) agree that the use of inhaling drugs ensures
direct and accurate administration of treatment to the appropriate part and reduces the chance of
systematic absorption. Administering medications through inhalations not only decreases the
possibility of ensuing side effects but also enhances the chances of medical benefit application.