In the face of respiratory challenges, those affected show remarkable resilience and courage, inspiring hope and promoting awareness for improved care and support.

What is COPD? Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is actually a group of diseases that causes problems related to breathing and air flow. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are both included in this group of diseases, which are often caused by air pollution or smoking. People who have diseases of COPD are typically at a higher risk for other health problems, making it even more important that they get the health care they need.

Why is prevention important? Because COPD is the world’s third leading cause of death, the earlier the diagnosis happens, the more likely people with the disease are to be able to be treated and live longer lives. But over the last three decades, the prevalence of COPD has increased rapidly. That’s why it is critically important that more people become aware of this disease, including the options for treatment as well as forms of prevention.

World COPD Day has been an important initiative for more than two decades, raising awareness for this disease and working in collaboration with health professionals as well as COPD patient groups all throughout the world.

Talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your health.