As lung maturity increases, these lamellar bodies are released into the amniotic fluid, where their concentration can be accurately measured. A higher lamellar body count indicates sufficient surfactant production and reduced risk of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).

Tobacco use affects far more than just the lungs. It increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, respiratory illness, and impacts the health of those around us through second hand exposure.

Every year on April 28th, we reflect on the foundations of a safe workplace. Over the years, our focus in the medical laboratory has been on biological, chemical, and physical hazards. This year, the International Labour Organization (ILO) invites us to look at a different, often invisible, dimension of safety: the psychosocial work environment.