Texas Health Stephenville

4 Up air? a Lung health the in Whether you're an employer or employee, it's important you don't take respiratory health for granted. regular pulmonary function tests can help determine if lung function is in a healthy range. pproximately 12 million Americans have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and an estimated 12 million have the disease but have yet to be diagnosed, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Working on area farms or in certain industries can put employees at risk for work-related lung disease. This can include asthma, bronchitis and COPD. "Smoking is a key culprit in lung disease, which can be exacerbated by environmental factors that result from a job," says Brian Andrews, B.S., R.R.T., director of the Cardiopulmonary Department at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Stephenville. "People who are exposed to particulates, which linger in the air — whether in an agricultural or industrial setting — should take precautions to preserve their lung function. Work-related lung illnesses can be prevented and managed if action is taken as early as possible." Breathe easier The Cardiopulmonary Department at Texas Health Stephenville offers pulmonary function tests to establish baseline lung health and referrals to a pulmonologist for those who require further care. Follow-up computed tomography (CT) scans and X-rays may be ordered to help a health care provider determine the causes of chronic respiratory symptoms. "We are working to increase awareness in the community and urging people to address symptoms, because treatment may not be effective if problems are ignored for too long," says Andrews. "If you are experiencing unexplained coughs, recurring pneumonia or bronchitis, or are coughing up phlegm, talk with your physician." For more information about the Cardiopulmonary Department at Texas Health Stephenville, call 254-965-1516. Dangers of a Desk Job Even if you do not work in an agricultural or industrial setting, your health may still be at risk while at work. Americans sit an average of 15.5 hours each day, and office workers can sit up to as many as 18 hours daily. While an increased risk of heart disease for less active people is well established, a study published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research finds a connection between sedentary lifestyles and increased cancer risk. GET MOVING The good news is regular exercise can reduce your risk of colon cancer by 35 percent and breast cancer by 25 percent. The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends the following tips to be more active during the workday: • Consult with co-workers in person rather than email. • Install a punching bag or chin-up bar in the break room. • Stand and walk around while talking on the phone. • Use the wall for leg lifts, stretching or vertical push-ups. TexasHealth.org

• Cover