Pulmonology involves the study and treatment of respiratory diseases and disorders. A pulmonary physician, or pulmonologist, treats diseases of the lungs, airways, and all other respiratory organs. The pulmonologist diagnoses and treats pneumonia, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other respiratory problems, and uses a variety of invasive and non-invasive diagnostic techniques to help patients.

Physicians in this specialty treat patients suffering from numerous diseases and illnesses, but some of the most common are Emphysema, Broncho-Esophagology, Pneumonia, Lung Disorders, cystic fibrosis, Asthma, Bronchitis, and pectus excavatum.

Doctor density varies by specialty and location. Washington, D.C. has 85 practicing pulmonary doctor / pulmonologist in Washington.

According to 2005 Census estimates, Washington, D.C. has a population of 550,521. Of this population, 110,240 are under the age of 18 and 66,591 are at or above the age of 65.