Christchurch takes part in World COPD Day – November 19 2014

10 November 2014

Christchurch takes part in World COPD Day – Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Christchurch will be taking part in World COPD Day next month to raise awareness of the condition responsible for thousands of the country’s hospital admissions every year.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) causes breathlessness, coughing and wheezing.

It kills millions of people worldwide.

The Community Respiratory Service is a team of health professionals at the Canterbury Clinical Network working towards better, sooner, more convenient management for people with respiratory problems.

Community Respiratory Services Nurse, Louise Weatherall said COPD often goes undiagnosed.

“A COPD sufferer can lose up to half of their lung function by the time they are diagnosed,” Mrs Weatherall said.

“With research suggesting that up to 11 per cent of the New Zealand population may be living with undiagnosed COPD, this is not good for the health of our country.”

Mrs Weatherall said increased public awareness is essential to control symptoms.

“COPD occurs when breathing passages in the lungs are obstructed and lung tissue is damaged. It is predominantly caused by cigarette smoking.

“While there is no cure, you are not alone and there are things you can do to improve your quality of life.

“There are other people with COPD who can show you how to lead an active and full life despite having the condition.

“For example, many COPD sufferers enjoy coming together for our Community Pulmonary Rehabilitation classes as it is a chance to get active with other sufferers in a safe environment.”

COPD sufferers, family, whanau and friends are all welcome to a free expo on World COPD Day:
• Join other COPD sufferers in the walking train through Hagley Park
• Meet other people living with COPD
• Hear from speakers about living with COPD and increasing quality of life
• Have your questions answered by health professionals
• Hear about activities in your area to help you live with COPD

A free expo will be held from 10.30am to 2.30pm at the Horticultural Hall, Riccarton Avenue.
The expo will include a walking train through Hagley Park to demonstrate the importance of peer support and exercise when living with COPD, beginning at 12.00 midday outside Canterbury Museum at the Botanic Gardens.

Could you have COPD?
• Do you cough several times most days?
• Cough up mucus most days?
• Get out of breath more easily than people your age?

If you answered yes to any of these questions talk to a health professional to arrange a breathing test.

ENDS

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