Global event raises awareness of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

November 16 is World COPD Day, which raises awareness about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The disease is the fourth leading cause of death in New Zealand after ischaemic heart disease, stroke and lung cancer, the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ says in a press release.

The foundation advises Kiwis particularly over the age of 35 to check in with their lungs on World COPD Day, by using the following checklist. Do you:

• Have a new, persistent or changed cough?
• Cough up mucus, phlegm or blood?
• Get breathless more easily than others your age?
• Experience chest tightness or wheeze?
• Have frequent chest infections?
• Experience chest pain, fatigue or sudden weight loss?

The foundation advises anyone who answered yes to any of the above questions, to speak with a doctor about the symptoms.

For more information, visit the foundation’s website.

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