Age-related features of the respiratory system functioning in women who experienced chronic stress caused by war

Abstract

As ageing progresses, conditions are created for the pulmonary pathology development and exacerbation of its course. On the other hand, chronic stress leads to a disruption of the respiratory system's adaptive capabilities, which may contribute to pathological conditions development and accelerated ageing. Aim of the Study: the study aimed to assess the lung ventilation function state and bronchial patency in women who have experienced chronic stress caused by war (CSW). Subjects and Methods. A total of 91 women aged 31-78 years who experienced CSW and 79 women in the age group of 29-74 years who did not experience CSW were examined. To diagnose the state of stress, the anxiety level (personal and situational) was determined using the Spielberger-Hanin test. The biological age of the respiratory system was calculated using a developed formula. Results. The impact of CSW did not significantly affect lung ventilation function and bronchial patency in middle-aged and older women. In young women who experienced CSW, there was a decrease in bronchial patency compared to women who did not experience CSW. At the same time, in young women who experienced CSW, the ageing of the respiratory system was accelerated. Conclusions. CSW by war significantly does not affect lung ventilation function and bronchial patency in middle-aged and older women. However, in young women, CSW leads to a reduction in some indicators of bronchial patency. The impact of CSW results in the ageing of the respiratory system in young women. _________________________________________________________________________________________ Keywords: chronic stress caused by war (CSW), ageing, women, ventilation, bronchial patency