This report considers the biological and behavioral mechanisms that may underlie the pathogenicity of tobacco smoke. Many Surgeon General's reports have considered research findings on mechanisms in assessing the biological plausibility of associations observed in epidemiologic studies. Mechanisms of disease are important because they may provide plausibility, which is one of the guideline criteria for assessing evidence on causation. This report specifically reviews the evidence on the potential mechanisms by which smoking causes diseases and considers whether a mechanism is likely to be operative in the production of human disease by tobacco smoke. This evidence is relevant to understanding how smoking causes disease, to identifying those who may be particularly susceptible, and to assessing the potential risks of tobacco products.

Respiratory care is an immensely satisfying branch of physiotherapy. It challenges our intellect, exploits our handling skills and employs our humanity to the full. Respiratory physiotherapy is both art and science. It is not an exact science, and effective treatment therefore depends on problem-solving. Analytic problem-solving requires the ability to define a problem and the knowledge to address it. Creative problem-solving requires a clear perspective of the individual patient's need. These are the aims of this book. Clinicians now expect explanations that are referenced and physiologically sound, meticulous attention to detail of technique and a patient-centred approach. This book is written for such readers and those who question and traditional rituals. fundamental assumptions Evaluation of practice is emphasized so that we are equipped to justify our protocol to ourselves and others. Carefully reasoned explanations and updated physiotherapy techniques are covered in precise detail. There is integration of theory and practice and emphasis on the hands-on aspect of physiotherapy. The glossary serves as a quick reference guide and an explanation of abbreviations, which are usually defined once only in the text. It has been greatly extended for the second edition and can be read in its own right as an extra physiology chapter. The text is enthusiastically written, highly readable and enlivened by quotations from patients whose experiences are a central theme throughout.

Significant changes have taken place in the policy landscape surrounding cannabis legalization, production, and use. During the past 20 years, 25 states and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis and/or cannabidiol (a component of cannabis) for medical conditions or retail sales at the state level and 4 states have legalized both the medical and recreational use of cannabis. These landmark changes in policy have impacted cannabis use patterns and perceived levels of risk. However, despite this changing landscape, evidence regarding the short- and long-term health effects of cannabis use remains elusive. While a myriad of studies have examined cannabis use in all its various forms, often these research conclusions are not appropriately synthesized, translated for, or communicated to policy makers, health care providers, state health officials, or other stakeholders who have been charged with influencing and enacting policies, procedures, and laws related to cannabis use. Unlike other controlled substances such as alcohol or tobacco, no accepted standards for safe use or appropriate dose are available to help guide individuals as they make choices regarding the issues of if, when, where, and how to use cannabis safely and, in regard to therapeutic uses, effectively. Shifting public sentiment, conflicting and impeded scientific research, and legislative battles have fueled the debate about what, if any, harms or benefits can be attributed to the use of cannabis or its derivatives, and this lack of aggregated knowledge has broad public health implications. The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids provides a comprehensive review of scientific evidence related to the health effects and potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis. This report provides a research agendaâ€"outlining gaps in current knowledge and opportunities for providing additional insight into these issuesâ€"that summarizes and prioritizes pressing research needs.

Cardiovascular, respiratory, and related conditions cause more than 40 percent of all deaths globally, and their substantial burden is rising, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Their burden extends well beyond health effects to include significant economic and societal consequences. Most of these conditions are related, share risk factors, and have common control measures at the clinical, population, and policy levels. Lives can be extended and improved when these diseases are prevented, detected, and managed. This volume summarizes current knowledge and presents evidence-based interventions that are effective, cost-effective, and scalable in LMICs.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive, largely irreversible lung condition characterised by airflow obstruction. Although cigarette smoking is the single most important risk factor in its development, other associations and risk factors are thought to have increasing relevance throughout the world. COPD is usually managed in primary care, although it is commonly under-diagnosed, and is one of the most common medical conditions necessitating admission to hospital. The second edition of the ABC of COPD provides the entire multidisciplinary team with a reliable, up-to-date and accessible account of COPD. Extensively updated by experienced clinicians - including new chapters on spirometry, inhalers, oxygen, death, dying and end of life issues - this ABC is an authoritative and practical guide for general practitioners, practice nurses, specialist nurses, medical students, paramedical staff, junior doctors, non-specialist doctors and all other health professionals working in both primary and secondary care.

The Second Edition of Asthma and COPD: Basic Mechanisms and Clinical Management continues to provide a unique and authoritative comparison of asthma and COPD. Written and edited by the world's leading experts, it continues to be a comprehensive review of the most recent understanding of the basic mechanisms of both conditions, specifically comparing their etiology, pathogenesis, and treatments. * Each chapter considers Asthma and COPD in side-by-side contrast and comparison – not in isolation - in the context of mechanism, triggers, assessments, therapies, and clinical management * Presents the latest and most comprehensive understandings of the mechanisms of inflammation in both Asthma and COPD * Most extensive reference to primary literature on both Asthma and COPD in one source. * Easy-to-read summaries of the latest advances alongside clear illustrations

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbations covers the definition, diagnosis, epidemiology, mechanisms, and treatment associated with COPD exacerbations. This text also addresses imaging and how it plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis and study of exacerbations.Written by today's top experts, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbat

This book details advances in research regarding cilia, mucus, and mucociliary clearance, examining changes in mucus expression and goblet cell metaplasia, and assessing the ability of the mucociliary system to respond to abnormalities. Recognizes that cilia and dynein arms play pivotal roles in developing mammalian embryos! Examines the rol

Cough is the most familiar symptom of respiratory disease, and a problem which general practitioners must deal with on a daily basis. This timely volume draws together a wealth of recent research into the mechanisms, pharmacology and therapies for cough, and places these in clinical context. The text incorporates guidelines on the most common causes of cough, discusses treatments and pitfalls in management, summarizes current research on physiology, pharmacology and treatment of cough, and gives practical advice on diagnosis and management issues for the clinician. Cough: Causes, Mechanisms and Therapy is the most comprehensive, up-to-date account of the subject. It will update clinical and basic medical scientists, and promote future research. Readers are encouraged to implement the clinical implications of the discussion into routine practice. This volume will appeal to all those involved in the treatment of respiratory disease, particularly those in hospital respiratory units, and will also be of use to interested general practitioners.