Breathe easy on World COPD Day

16 November 2010

Staff at John Hunter Hospital are encouraging the community to ‘catch their breath’ by supporting World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) which is being held this Wednesday.

COPD day aims to raise awareness of COPD, in order to encourage those with symptoms to ask their doctor about a simple lung function test.

COPD is a long term disease of the lungs that is sometimes referred to as emphysema and chronic bronchitis which causes difficulty breathing.  It mostly affects people aged 40 or over with a history of cigarette smoking.

Respiratory Liaison Nurse Specialist Lisa Bentley said that while one in five Australian’s aged over 40 have some form of the deadly lung disease only one in four of those affected are aware they have the condition.

“The symptoms of COPD can include a productive cough with phlegm or mucus on most days and shortness of breath on minimal exertion,” Ms Bentley said.

“If people are aware of the symptoms of the disease and seek medical attention they can take important steps to manage the condition before it reaches a more advanced and debilitating stage.

“If you are experiencing these symptoms we encourage you to go to your doctor and ask for a simple lung function test. If you are diagnosed early there are a number of things you can do to help get the most out of your lungs, so that simple daily tasks such as showering and dressing are less difficult.

“The first step is to stop smoking and then seek advice about medication, exercise, education and other support,” Ms Bentley said.

As part of World COPD Day, The Hunter Area Respiratory Patient Support (HARPS) group are working to raise awareness of COPD by hosting the Catch Your Breath Walk for COPD. The local walk will take place tomorrow (17 November 2010) at 10am from the Newcastle Foreshore at the Old Tram Sheds.

People with COPD and their carers can access the Patient Guide by visiting The Australian Lung Foundation website on www.lungnet.com.au or by calling 1 800 654 301.

Media opportunity: A patient living with COPD is available for media interviews on request.

Contact: Sharna McCarthy

Phone: 4921 4501