COPD Foundation holds exercise challenge to support COPD Awareness Month in November
Lace Up for Lungs campaign challenges participants to exercise for 30 minutes a day to raise awareness and funds for COPD research
MIAMI & NEW YORK, (Oct. 27, 2023) - This November, the COPD Foundation will kick off COPD Awareness Month with its Lace Up for Lungs campaign, a 30-day exercise and fundraising challenge to raise awareness and funds for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease. The media challenge encourages people of any age or ability level to get active for 30 minutes a day each day in November.
COPD comprises several conditions, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and can be caused by genetics and irritants like smoke or pollution. The disease affects more than 30 million Americans and is the third leading cause of death worldwide, yet awareness of the disease's symptoms, methods to reduce risk, and disease management remains poor. Symptoms include breathlessness, fatigue, and chronic cough.
According to research, regular physical activity can help COPD patients breathe better, feel better, and live longer, more fulfilling lives.
"Despite its prevalence, COPD is underfunded and misunderstood," said Jean Wright, M.D., MBA, CEO of the COPD Foundation. "COPD Awareness Month gives us a chance to shine a spotlight on chronic lung disease, share symptoms and signs, reduce stigma, promote early diagnosis, and support patients and their families. Lace Up for Lungs is the perfect opportunity to promote regular exercise and encourage people to get moving, which can improve symptoms and quality of life for those living with the disease."
To join the Lace Up for Lungs Challenge this November, participants can:
- Start a Facebook fundraiser and invite friends to donate or join the challenge.
- Join the Lace Up for Lungs Facebook group to meet and support other participants.
- Download the social media toolkit for free resources, images, sample posts, and printable signs.
- Get moving for 30 minutes a day every day in November. Physical activities can range from stretching to walking to lifting weights. Share your progress by posting pictures and videos of your activities to the Facebook group and individual social media.
Lace Up for Lungs is generously supported by The Marilyn Lichtman Foundation, Theravance Biopharma, Inc., Insmed Incorporated, and Viatris Inc.
For more information about how to get involved with COPD Awareness Month activities and become a lung health champion, visit copdfoundation.org.
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About the COPD Foundation
The COPD Foundation is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help millions of people live longer and healthier lives by advancing research, advocacy, and awareness to stop COPD, bronchiectasis, and NTM lung disease. The Foundation does this through scientific research, education, advocacy, and awareness to prevent disease, slow progression, and find a cure. For more information, visit copdfoundation.org, or follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Contact
The COPD Foundation
Jessica Burke
(786) 625-7809
mediarelations@copdfoundation.org
copdfoundation.org