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Pneumonia

Accounting for 20.7% of deaths in Singapore in 2019, pneumonia is second most lethal disease in Singapore. 


Pneumonia occurs when an infection causes inflammation of the alveoli in the lungs. The alveoli fill with fluid or pus. This causes coughing with phlegm or pus, fever, chills and difficulty breathing. It is most serious in infants, people above the age of 65 and in those with weakened immune systems. 


Pneumonia can cause several life-threatening complications. Firstly, bacteria can enter the bloodstream from the lungs, causing a condition known as bacteremia. This allows the bacteria to spread to other organs. Furthermore, fluid can also accumulate in the pleural, and abscesses can form in the lungs. 


Most patients will suffer from breathing difficulties. In severe instances, the patient may need to be hospitalised and use a ventilator to breathe.


Bacterias and viruses are the commonest causes of pneumonia. Henceforth, the most effective way to combat pneumonia is through vaccinations. This would prevent the widespread proliferation of the illness.


Sources:

https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/pneumonia/symptoms-and-diagnosis

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pneumonia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354204#

https://www.healthxchange.sg/heart-lungs/lung-conditions/pneumonia-causes-symptoms#:~:text=Pneumonia%2C%20a%20serious%20inflammatory%20condition,Ministry%20of%20Health%20(MOH).

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