New National Awareness and Education Campaign on Chronic
Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Today marks the NHLBI public launch of the Learn
More, Breathe Better campaign to increase
understanding of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
among persons at greatest risk for the disease and to
stimulate diagnosis and treatment efforts.
Although more than 12 million Americans already have been
diagnosed with COPD, an additional 12 million are likely to
have the disease, but do not know it. Because symptoms go
unrecognized, people at risk do not seek early diagnosis and
do not get treatment. Effective treatment can lead to better
control of symptoms, improved capacity for everyday
activities, and a longer life.
People over age 45 with a history of smoking are at
greatest risk. Long-term or heavy exposure to lung irritants
such as chemicals, dusts, fumes, and second hand smoke also
increase risk. In addition, people with a genetic condition
known as alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency can get COPD even if
they never smoked or never had long-term exposure to harmful
pollutants.
The campaign features these materials
to help get the word out about COPD:
Fact Sheets
- “COPD: Are You at Risk?” – Understanding the disease and
its risk factors as well as providing information on getting
help.
Order item #06-5840 at http://emall.nhlbihin.net/product2.asp?sku=06-5840
for *F|R|E|E* single copy, additional
copies ONLY 25¢ each.
- “Breathing Better With a COPD Diagnosis” –
Understanding the condition in order to take steps to
breathe easier and live a more active life.
Order item
#06-5841 at http://emall.nhlbihin.net/product2.asp?sku=06-5841
for *F|R|E|E* single copy, additional
copies ONLY $1.25 each.
Health Care Provider Reference Card –
Pocket-sized reference card containing COPD essentials and
listing risk factors and diagnosis and treatment options.
Order item #06-5845 at http://emall.nhlbihin.net/product2.asp?sku=06-5845
for ONLY $1.50 each.
Online COPD Speaker's Guide – Two complete
scripts and two slide sets for two different audiences:
- The public and persons at risk for COPD
- Primary care providers
With tips for making presentations and free downloads, the
COPD Speaker’s Guide can be easily used by community
volunteers and health professionals alike. The first
presentation is great for employee groups, senior citizens,
community health events, and social groups. The second is
suited for local professional meetings or medical in-service
programs.
Preview the COPD: It Has a Name: Speakers Guide and slide
sets at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/lung/copd/campaign-materials/index.htm.
Early detection and treatment of COPD can slow the disease
and improve quality of life. Learn more at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/lung/copd/.
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