Busines Name

Respiratory disease is a condition of particular interest in Gateshead, South Tyneside and Sunderland due to the area's recent industrial heritage. In the twentieth century coalmining, shipbuilding and other heavy industries formed a significant part of the regions economy. For this reason, it might be expected that respiratory disease would be more prevalent in Gateshead, South Tyneside and Sunderland than in other parts of England.

COPD is a disease of adults, particularly those over 45, with a history of smoking
or inhalation of airborne pollution. It is diagnosed when the forced expiratory
volume in 1 second (FEV) is less than 60% of the expected value for the patient’s
age and height and the patient does not respond to steroid drugs and bronchodilators.
Average percentage prevalence of COPD among people of all ages.

Asthma is caused by a narrowing of the bronchial airways, which changes in
severity over short periods of time (either spontaneously or under treatment). The
condition leads to cough, wheezing and difficulty in breathing.
Average percentage prevalence of asthma among people of all ages.