Women’s Lung Health: Why Female Respiratory Risks Deserve More Attention
The Overlooked Gender Gap in Lung Health
Lung disease doesn’t affect everyone equally. Research shows that women are more vulnerable to certain respiratory conditions, often due to biological, hormonal, and environmental differences. Yet, these differences are frequently underrecognized in clinical settings.
Hormones and Lung Function
Estrogen and progesterone — key female hormones — influence airway inflammation and responsiveness. This is why some women experience asthma symptoms that fluctuate with their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause.
Asthma and COPD in Women
Asthma is more common in adult women, and their symptoms tend to be more severe. Likewise, the number of women diagnosed with COPD has surged, even among nonsmokers.
Smaller airways and higher exposure to indoor pollutants (like cooking smoke in some environments) may contribute to these differences.
Lung Cancer in Women
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death among women — even surpassing breast cancer. Alarmingly, many female patients diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked, suggesting genetic and environmental factors play a significant role.
Early screening with low-dose CT scans can detect lung cancer at its most treatable stages and save lives.
Taking Charge of Your Respiratory Health
Women can reduce their risk by:
- Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke.
- Scheduling annual check-ups and screenings.
- Staying physically active to strengthen lung function.
- Talking to their doctors about how hormones may impact breathing.
At Pulmonary & Medicine Associates, we’re dedicated to empowering women with the knowledge and care they need to protect their lungs — and their lives.
