This special episode features Dr. MeiLan Han, a Professor of Medicine and Chief of Pulmonary and Critical Care at the University of Michigan and author of the book Breathing Lessons: A Doctor’s Guide to Lung Health. Dr. Han shares her perspective on the impact of COVID-related respiratory issues and how this emphasized the importance of healthy lungs and the vital role they play. She talks about her background in pulmonary care and why her desire to better educate patients (and other physicians) on lung health led to writing Breathing Lessons. The discussion also touches on research data insights, measuring lung function as people age, the use of spirometry testing, and advocating for improved public policy on lung health. In addition, Dr. Han highlights the importance of expanding patient conversations beyond just addressing complaints to also focusing on awareness of environmental and socioeconomic factors that contribute to lung disease as well as practical, preventative steps patients can take to reduce risks.

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