The American Lung Association of Arizona is proud to present Breathe Free: A COPD Collaborative, a new program that will focus on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease throughout the state. The Breathe Free program identifies individuals at-risk for COPD through early detection and screening. The program consists of community and healthcare provider education aimed at improving the quality of life for those afflicted, increasing awareness of the use spirometry for early detection and screening and increasing awareness of interventions aimed at high-risk behavior associated with the disease, such as smoking. Findings suggest that there is a clear lack of COPD awareness, information, and education among patients, providers and the community. Approximately half of the COPD Community Survey participants age 44 and older were unfamiliar with COPD. Furthermore, providers indicated that time demands, a lack if resources and a lack of training related to early detection and treatment of COPD, are barriers to providing care to their patients.

If you are interested in this program please call (602) 258-7505 or (520) 323-1812.