Breathing Lessons: A Doctor’s Guide to Lung Health

In her first book, Han (pulmonary and critical care, Univ. of Michigan) combines memoir with how-to guide in order to explain the importance of our lungs, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and how she was drawn to diagnosing and treating lung disease. Han outlines how these diseases are poorly understood and often overlooked as well as the ongoing impact on our lungs from various environmental contaminants. She is especially adept at detailing the effects of environmental racism, explaining chronic illnesses (e.g., asthma, cystic fibrosis, COPD), and their particular impacts on Black communities. Han stresses the danger of indoor air pollution (such as the mold or mildew that can reside in a home or office) and outdoor pollution, like asbestos, dust, vapor, and gas that can linger in an area long after a natural disaster. She concludes by showing the connection between lung health, air pollution, and climate change and offering steps for advocating for oneself. She also offers advice on what to expect when first visiting a pulmonologist.