“Lung health remains a major concern within the Veteran community, as many Veterans face heightened risks due to service-related tobacco use, occupational hazards, and environmental exposures. Respiratory diseases are a prominent health issue for veterans, with the Department of Veterans Affairs diagnosing approximately 7,700 cases of lung cancer annually among Veterans and an estimated 900,000 at risk due to factors like age, smoking, and environmental conditions. In 2023, 55% of Veterans had ever smoked, compared to 32% of civilians, underscoring the need for increased lung health awareness and preventive care.
“Lung health has historically been impacted by high smoking rates among Veterans,” says Joel Nations, MD, Volunteer Spokesperson for the American Lung Association; Pulmonologist, Washington DC VA Medical Center. “This is especially true for military personnel during deployment, though many Veterans reduce smoking or quit altogether after leaving the service. However, their history of smoking keeps them at elevated risk for lung cancer. The most important steps are to avoid smoking, quit if you do smoke, and get screened if you’re at high risk.”
American Lung Association (Press Releases | American Lung Association | American Lung Association)
“Lung disease affects a staggering number of Americans. About 10 million adults are diagnosed with chronic bronchitis each year, and about 4.7 million others have ever been diagnosed with emphysema.
Chronic bronchitis and emphysema constitute the diseases that make up Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). About 25 million people live with asthma as well.
Occupational lung diseases, which include asbestosis and mesothelioma, also affect many Americans. Occupational illnesses are estimated to cost $150 billion annually.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), typically caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants that damage the lungs and airways, is attributed to occupational exposure 19.2% of the time.”
Lung Institute (Healthy Lung Month – Lung Institute)