COPD Awareness PSA’s Available

ALBANY, NY (04/10/2008)(readMedia)-- In recognition of National Public Health Week, the American Lung Association of New York State is providing Public Service Announcements informing New Yorkers about the dangers of Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COPD), and how by learning more, they can breathe better.

The PSA’s are available in :30 and :60 second versions by visiting www.alanys.org and clicking on the News and Media Center tab, and then following the Multimedia Resources link.

COPD decreases the lungs ability to take in oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. As the disease progresses, the small airways and alveoli within the walls of the lungs lose elasticity. The airway walls collapse, closing some of the smaller air passages and narrowing the larger ones. The passageways then become clogged with mucus. Although air continues to reach the alveoli when the lungs expand during inhalation, the air is often unable to escape during exhalation and becomes trapped inside the lungs.

Across New York State, thousands of individuals with COPD participate in Better Breathers Clubs. These free support groups meet regularly to give participants tips and techniques to manage their disease. Better Breather's Clubs also welcome adults with asthma and other chronic lung disorders. Clubs’ currently meet in Dutchess, Westchester, Herkimer, Monroe, Nassau, Ontario, and Rensselaer counties. For a complete list of Better Breathers Clubs and their locations, visit our website at www.alanys.org.

Quick facts about COPD

COPD is the term referring to a large group of lung diseases characterized by obstruction of airflow that interferes with normal breathing.

COPD, which is the fourth leading cause of death behind cardiovascular disease, cancers and stroke, claims the lives of more than 120,000 Americans annually.

Causes of COPD include a history of childhood respiratory infections and heredity.

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