Occupational therapy in respiratory medicine: Global challenge in the 21st century.

Md Jahangir Alam

Abstract

Worldwide respiratory disease causes an immense health burden which impacts to productive human activity. The leading causes of respiratory diseases in the modern world are: rapid urbanization, imbalance occupation, physical inactivity, use of tobacco, indoor and outdoor air pollution, allergens, ageing and heredity. Healthcare costs for respiratory diseases are an increasing effect on productivity and national growth. The public, political leaders and policy makers should awake to and address that respiratory diseases are preventable and avoidable by reducing use of tobacco and air pollution. The ability to control respiratory disease and promote respiratory health predominantly relies on healthy lifestyle and a daily balance of occupation. Occupational Therapy has a profound effect on respiratory health by increasing awareness, education, training, advice on lifestyle and daily occupations which could reduce economic costs and enhance patient’s health and wellbeing. Research is essential for improving the understanding of the disease processes, which will allows for preventions, better diagnoses, treatment and enhance patient’s quality of life. So, the Nation needs to provide advanced and up to date training for health professionals in respiratory medicine.