The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Countries’ fortunes inextricably linked
Farming In my view Jane Craigie
that 50% of what’s exported to the EU from Ireland goes through the UK as a ‘land bridge’.
We also need them. In terms of agricultural and food products, Ireland sells €5.5bn to the UK and the UK exports just under €4bn to Ireland – theirs is our largest food market. Though you all spend plenty of time outside in fresh air, there are risks to the health of your lungs that are important to be aware of.
Reducing your exposure to the fine dusts in hay, organic mould and grain could protect you from “farmer’s lung”, for which there is no real treatment besides a transplant.
This sounds dramatic, but farmers have a much higher risk than the general population of contracting a respiratory condition, such as chronic bronchitis, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Smoking is one of the biggest contributing factors to lung disease. We can support you to stop smoking – call the healthline free on 08085 202030 or visit your local pharmacy.
You should also take care of yourself to reduce your exposure to dust. Wear a mask and create as much ventilation as possible when