Open house to help COPD sufferers breathe easier

Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) along with Open Airways will host the reception at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

According to a press statement, COPD is a major cause of disability as well as a leading cause of death.

Worldwide, more women die of COPD than breast cancer and more men die of COPD than prostate cancer.

Debbie Barboza of the hospital’s Asthma Education Centre said:  “Many people have COPD and don’t know it.

“Some think their symptoms are just a natural part of the aging process. However, COPD is a life-threatening disease that will get worse if not treated.”

Liz Boden of Open Airways said: “COPD has no cure yet and doctors don't know how to reverse the damage to the airways and lungs.

 “However, treatments and lifestyle changes can help you feel better, stay more active, and slow the progress of the disease.”

COPD is usually caused by smoking.

Symptoms include coughing, bringing up phlegm or mucus and getting short of breath.

To make an appointment for COPD education, call the BHB Asthma Education Centre at 239-1652 or Open Airways at 232-0264.