November Is COPD Awareness Month

Did you know that COPD is the third leading cause of death in the U.S.? Did you also know that 12 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, while an estimated 12 million more have it, but have not been diagnosed? If you don’t, that’s part of the problem!

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis – can be prevented and is treatable, but only if people know about it. Smoking is the leading cause of COPD, and many long-term smokers aren't aware they have it.

So, it's no coincidence that November is both Lung Cancer Awareness Month and COPD Awareness Month. Lung cancer and COPD are two of the leading causes of death in America – and also among the most preventable and under-appreciated.

This November, the American Lung Association is shining a spotlight on these two deadly diseases, and what’s being done to reduce their burden on American lives and that of their loved ones. They've created two new pages on their website that are now dedicated to raising awareness about COPD and lung cancer year round.

Visit the American Lung Association COPD Awareness website to see if you're at risk.