Description
EMPHYSEMEV identifies sample adults whom a doctor or other health professional had ever diagnosed as having emphysema. In 2002 and 2007, respondents with an affirmative response were asked a follow-up question about whether they had emphysema during the past 12 months (EMPHYSEMYR).
The Field Representative's Manual for 2001 forward provided the following definition of emphysema: "Emphysema is an abnormal enlargement or distension of the air sacs of the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. Usually chronic and progressive, the condition is associated with heredity, smoking, and long-standing respiratory ailments such as chronic bronchitis." This definition was not routinely shared with respondents.
