Men’s Lung Health: Steps to Take Now to Breathe Easier Your Whole Life Long

Guys, don’t make the mistake of taking your lungs for granted.

Men are at higher risk for various pulmonary diseases, including obstructive sleep apnea, lung cancer, mesothelioma, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and even pneumonia and COVID-19, according to the American Lung Association.

But the good news is that you’re in the driver’s seat. Improving health habits, getting regular check-ups and taking advantage of early testing and treatment today can often ward off the worst outcomes down the line.

“Most lung diseases are preventable,” said Callie Gadash, Respiratory Therapist and Cardiopulmonary Manager at Prowers Medical Center.

Risk Factors and Men

Smoking is a major risk factor for lung disease, and more American men smoke than women. Our lungs contain millions of tiny air sacs called alveoli. Alveoli pull oxygen from the air we breathe and release carbon dioxide when we exhale. Over time, smoking kills the cells that line the alveoli. Cigarette smoke also contains thousands of chemicals that are bad for our lungs, including carbon monoxide.

Occupational risk is another reason that men have a higher incidence of many lung diseases. Jobs such as farming, firefighting, construction and vehicle repair have traditionally exposed men to more respiratory allergens and particulates, including asbestos. “Men tend to be in jobs that are a little harder on their bodies,” Gadash said.

Men’s anatomy plays a role, too. Gender differences in airway size, breathing control, hormones, obesity and aging put them at higher risk of obstructive sleep apnea, for example.

Caring for Your Lungs

Taking good care of your lungs involves a few simple steps you can get started on today.

  1. Schedule a check-up.

See your primary care provider at Prowers Medical Center to discuss your lung-disease risk factors as well as any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have any shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, chest tightness, recurring respiratory infections, fatigue, chronic mucus issues, or unexplained fever or weight loss, tell your provider.

Dr. Craig Shapiro is a board-certified pulmonologist who visits Prowers Medical Center once a month. He can monitor any lung disease you may have and help you take action to safeguard and even improve your lung function. Pulmonary rehabilitation at Prowers Medical Center is also an excellent option for some patients.

  1. Avoid air pollution.

If at all possible, stay away from secondhand smoke, outdoor air pollution and asbestos. Use safety equipment such as proper masks if you must be exposed. In the home, radon gas and volatile organic compounds in many paints and carpeting can also damage the lungs.

  1. Exercise.

Physical activity strengthens your lungs and heart. Simple deep-breathing exercises are also good for your lungs.

  1. Use a CPAP if you need one.

A continuous positive airway pressure device, or CPAP, keeps your airways open while you sleep, ensuring your body gets the oxygen it needs.

  1. Quit smoking.

If you smoke, you can reverse many aspects of lung disease by quitting. Your circulation and lung function will improve within three months of quitting, according to the American Cancer Society. And within nine months, the small hair-like structures in your lungs called cilia—which are damaged by smoking—start working again. They help clear the lungs of mucus and reduce the risk of infection.

“Taking good care of your body is my advice,” Gadash said. “With early detection, use of safety equipment, prescribed medications and good health habits, you can keep your lungs healthier and feel much better.”