Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

Which demographic is most affected by pneumothorax?

1. Obese individuals

2. Tall and thin people

3. Children under five

4. Senior citizens

The correct answer is: Tall and thin people

Tall and thin individuals are most affected by pneumothorax due to anatomical and physiological factors. This demographic is often associated with primary spontaneous pneumothorax, which tends to occur in young males who are tall and have a lean body build. The condition may arise from the rupture of small blebs (air-filled sacs) on the surface of the lung, which can occur more readily in those with less body fat and a tall stature. The increased thoracic cavity size in tall individuals can also contribute to an increased likelihood of pressure differences that may facilitate the occurrence of pneumothorax. This susceptibility highlights the importance of understanding how body composition and demographics can influence respiratory conditions, particularly in emergency medicine and prehospital care. Other demographics, such as obese individuals or children under five, may experience pneumothorax but at significantly lower rates. Senior citizens may also experience it, especially with underlying lung conditions, but they do not have the same predisposition as the taller, thinner population.