November is National COPD Awareness Month.

This observance is a time to raise awareness among those afflicted, healthcare providers, and the communities in which we live.

Did you know?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third-leading cause of death in the United States. The disease kills more than 120,000 Americans each year – that’s one death every four minutes – and causes serious, long-term disability. The number of people with COPD is increasing. More than 12 million people are diagnosed with COPD and an additional 12 million likely have the disease and don’t even know it. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends the following:

1. Be aware of the risk factors
2. Recognize the symptoms
3. Ask your physician or healthcare provider about a simple breathing test
4. Follow treatment advice

Key risk factors for COPD:
If you…

• have shortness of breath, chronic cough, or have trouble performing simple daily tasks like climbing stairs, grocery shopping, or laundry;
• are over age 40 and currently smoke or used to smoke;
• have worked or lived around lung irritants like chemicals or fumes; have certain genetic conditions;

… you could be at risk for COPD.

If you are at risk for COPD:

• Talk with your healthcare provider about shortness of breath, chronic cough, or decline in activity level.
• Get a simple breathing test, also known as spirometry.
• Quit smoking. Need help? Talk to your physician or healthcare provider.
• Avoid pollutants or fumes that can irritate your lungs.

Manage your COPD:

• Take medication as directed by your physician or healthcare provider.
• Use oxygen therapy if prescribed by your physician or healthcare provider.
• Enroll in a pulmonary rehabilitation program.
• Avoid pollutants or fumes that can irritate your lungs.
• Get flu and pneumonia shots as directed by your physician or healthcare provider.