World C.O.P.D. Day is observed every year on the third Wednesday of November. This year, it’s commemorated on November 16. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (C.O.P.D.) is a type of preventable and treatable progressive lung disease that is characterized by long-term respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. Its main symptoms include shortness of breath and a cough, and possible chronic sputum production. It’s a progressive disease that worsens over time, making everyday activities such as walking or dressing more and more difficult. The most common cause of C.O.P.D. is tobacco smoking and other inhaled toxic particles and gasses. Other factors are Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, older age, and genetics.
HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD COPD DAY
Visit your doctor if you think you’re at risk
If you are — or know someone who is — a smoker, or have parents that have suffered from C.O.P.D., this is a good opportunity to check with your general practitioner. You can also do a simple breath test online for free, to see if your lung capacity is normal.
Read more information about COPD
The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD)’s website has a lot of information about the topic, and each year they choose a specific theme for World C.O.P.D. Day. They also have even more activities you can do to observe this day, including conferences about the topic that they organize.
Spread awareness of C.O.P.D.
You may not have it, but others may not be so lucky, and worse, they could not realize they are sick. Share articles on social media with your friends and family using the hashtag #WorldCOPDDay.
Courtesy: nationaltoday.com
