Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Farmer's lung epidemiology and demographics
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Farmer’s lung disease is more prevalent in damper climates and after wet harvest season. It is more commonly observed in men as they are more exposed to the offending agent. Peak incidence of cases is from late winter to early spring.
Epidemiology and Demographics
Epidemiology and Demographics
Incidence
Prevalence
- Farmer’s lung disease is more prevalent in damper climates, especially after wet harvest season.
- In USA, rates vary from 0.42% in Wisconsin to 3% in Wyoming.
- In Scotland- rates vary from 2.3%-8.6% in farmers of varying regions.[1]
Case-fatality rate/Mortality rate
- If not properly diagnosed or recognized, with Farmer’s lung disease or antigen exposure, about 50% will be disabled with in 5 years, and about 10% will die.
Age
- Patients of all age groups may develop Farmer’s lung disease.
- Farmer’s lung disease is observed to be less prevalent in children.
Race
- There is no racial predilection to Farmer’s lung disease noted.
Gender
- Farmer’s lung disease is more prevalent in men as they are often exposed to the offending agent.
- Women and children have less observed prevalence rates.
Region
- Farmer’s lung disease is more prevalent in damper climates.