Which forms of respiratory distress are farmers primarily exposed to?

Farmers are primarily exposed to asthma due to various environmental factors present in agricultural settings. The farming profession often involves exposure to allergens such as mold, dust, animal dander, and chemical irritants, which can provoke asthmatic reactions. Asthma can be exacerbated by the physical exertion involved in farm work, seasonal variations, and the presence of respiratory irritants typical in agricultural environments.

While chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, fibrosis, and interstitial lung disease can also affect farmers, they are typically more associated with long-term exposure to respiratory irritants and pollutants rather than the acute reactions commonly linked with asthma. Asthma is particularly prevalent in communities where agricultural practices increase the risks of respiratory distress due to the combination of inhalation of organic dust and exposure to other allergens that can trigger asthma episodes among those in the farming profession.