MED 209 — Respiratory I

University of Cape Coast · Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery · Year 2, Semester 1 · outline 2026/2027

MED 209 Respiratory I is one of the systems studied in Cycle I of the core curriculum. It introduces the structure and function of the respiratory system by integrating Anatomy, Embryology, Histology, Physiology and Biochemistry. Anatomy covers the thoracic skeleton, thoracic wall, diaphragm, blood supply and lymphatics of the thorax, pleura, lungs and bronchopulmonary segments, with their clinical applications. Embryology covers the development of the trachea, bronchi and lungs and their anomalies, and Histology the microscopic structure of the respiratory tract and the blood–air barrier. Physiology covers the gas laws, lung volumes and spirometry, the mechanics of breathing, pulmonary circulation, ventilation–perfusion matching, gas transfer and transport, the control of breathing, respiratory adjustments and the pathophysiology of common respiratory disorders. Biochemistry covers cellular respiration, the respiratory quotient, haemoglobin and myoglobin, acid–base biochemistry and the effects of environmental gases. Lectures, PBL, practicals and clinical demonstrations show how these sciences underpin clinical practice.