Chronic and Communicable Diseases – Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Compared to other prevalent communicable illnesses, the death rate from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) has alarmingly increased, especially in developing countries. Numerous interrelated variables, mainly related to lifestyle, environmental exposures, and the healthcare system, are responsible for this phenomenon. First, prolonged exposure to tobacco smoke, indoor air pollution, and dust and chemicals from the workplace is often associated with COPD (Harris, 2013: p. 344). In underdeveloped nations, where regulatory frameworks and awareness programs may be lacking, individuals are more prone to sustained exposure to these risk factors, leading to a higher incidence and severity of COPD (World Health Organization, 2023).
Moreover, healthcare infrastructure plays a pivotal role in managing and preventing chronic diseases. Underdeveloped nations may face challenges in providing adequate healthcare resources and infrastructure, resulting in delayed diagnosis and suboptimal management of COPD cases (Harris, 2013: pp 345 – 350). In contrast, communicable diseases often have more immediate and direct interventions, such as vaccines or antibiotics, which can contribute to lower mortality rates. Furthermore, the aging population globally contributes to the increasing burden of chronic diseases. COPD is often associated with aging, and as life expectancy increases, the prevalence of COPD rises, contributing to higher mortality rates (Harris, 2013: pp 345 – 350). In underdeveloped nations, where healthcare systems may be struggling to address infectious diseases, the management of chronic diseases like COPD may receive less attention, exacerbating mortality rates.
In summary, the rise in mortality rates associated with COPD compared to communicable diseases in underdeveloped nations can be linked to prolonged exposure to risk factors, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and the challenges posed by an aging population. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive public health strategies, increased awareness, and improved healthcare systems to mitigate the impact of chronic diseases on mortality rates.
References
Harris, R. E. (2013). Epidemiology of chronic disease. Jones & Bartlett.
World Health Organization. (2023, March 16). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). World Health Organization: WHO. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-(copd)
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Question 
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
INSTRUCTION: Responses should be at least 200 words or more. You must research answers and all answers must include reading citations, with page numbers, parenthetical style (Author, Date: page#), and the source listed in APA style at the end of the post.
Explain how a chronic disease like COPD has seen an increase in mortality compared to the more common communicable diseases seen throughout the world, especially in underdeveloped nations.
Support your post through proper citations
Textbook: Harris, R. E. (2013). Epidemiology of chronic disease. Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett.
ISBN-13: 978-1449653286 ISBN-10: 1449653286
Chapters 9, 10, 11, 30, 31, 46