Disparities in Disease Burden and Treatment of Patients Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

Abstract

Lung health reflects the inequities of our society. Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are 2 lung conditions commonly treated in general clinical practice; each imposes a disproportionate burden on disadvantaged patients. Numerous factors mediate disparities in lung health, including air pollution, allergen exposures, tobacco, and respiratory infections. Members of racial/ethnic minorities and those of low socioeconomic status also have inferior access to high-quality medical care, compounding disparities in disease burden. Physicians can work against disparities in their practice, but wide-ranging policy reforms to achieve better air quality, housing, workplace safety, and healthcare for all are needed to achieve equity in lung health.