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.
Item #06-5840 - “Breathing Better With a COPD Diagnosis” – Understanding the condition in order to take steps to breathe easier and live a more active life.
Item #06-5841 Health Care Provider Reference Card – Pocket-sized reference card containing COPD essentials and listing risk factors and diagnosis and treatment options. Item #06-5845. 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/. | 
