Event

The aging population (65 years and older) is expected to increase rapidly over the next decade. Changes in cellular, physiologic and immunologic function are a normal part of the aging process that increases the risk for chronic lung disease. This session will highlight for the learner how the molecular biology of aging (e.g., telomere attrition, mitochondrial dysfunction, extracellular matrix deregulation, etc.) combined with immunosenescence and changes in lung structure and function can predispose elderly individuals to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Increased understanding of aging pathobiology will provide insight into these diseases and their management.