In a collaborative effort, the COPD Foundation and the COPD Action Alliance have succeeded in having 21 states officially recognize November as COPD Awareness Month. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, affects over 30 million Americans and ranks as the fourth leading cause of death globally. The disease can result from genetic factors or exposure to irritants such as smoke or pollution.
Jean Wright, M.D., MBA, CEO of the COPD Foundation, said, “This recognition of November as COPD Awareness Month at a state level is a powerful acknowledgement of the need to prioritize people’s lung health and raise awareness of the millions of Americans living with COPD.” She added that raising awareness at the state level helps foster discussions about early diagnosis and support for those affected by COPD.
The states recognizing this month include Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
For those interested in participating in COPD Awareness Month activities or becoming advocates for lung health can find more information on copdfoundation.org.
The full name of the organization behind this initiative is Copd Foundation Inc. Their mission is to extend lives through research and advocacy efforts aimed at combating COPD and related diseases. More details about their work are available on their website.
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