The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
New survey results confirm that COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, affects many more Canadians than previously estimated (1.5 million), and that 69 per cent of Canadians have not heard of COPD. In addition, 1.6 million Canadians 40 years or older may currently have undiagnosed COPD, which means three million Canadians may have the disease. The Lung Association released this data this week to coincide with World COPD Day, which was observed Wednesday. ÒThere is a huge need for earlier diagnosis for Canadians at risk,Ó said Dr. Brian Graham, President and CEO of The Lung Association of Saskatchewan. ÒCurrent and former smokers who have yet to be tested for this disease, must take action.Ó A simple breathing test called spirometry is used to confirm the diagnosis of COPD. ÒSpirometry is the key to diagnosing COPD early. It is a very simple, yet important first step in optimizing patient care,Ó said Dr. Darcy Marciniuk, Respirologist and COPD Professor, University of Saskatchewan. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a specialized exercise, education, nutritional counseling and psychological and social support program geared to patients with long-term respiratory diseases like COPD. Although pulmonary rehabilitation is considered a cornerstone of COPD disease management, not everyone who needs it has access to rehabilitation facilities. ÒI am breathless Ð not helpless,Ó is the message that Norman Thomas shares with The Lung Association and the residents of Saskatchewan. A diagnosis of COPD hasnÕt stopped Norman from participating in the pulmonary rehabilitation program. ÒAlthough I was diagnosed in January 2008, I required oxygen from October, 2003 onwards,Ó he said. ÒI was relieved that the cause of the condition was determined and help could be received. My lifestyle was changed completely with dependence on oxygen, and I am thankful that oxygen is available to live with the condition. I presently am being as active as possible under the circumstances.Ó To mark World COPD Day, The Lung Association conducted a virtual trek across Canada with people who live with COPD and the people who have been touched by the disease.
